Pair of 17th Century Torchieres From Monastery in Pistoia, Italy

Pair of important carved figures of Page Boys that came from the chapel of a Monastery in the city of Pistoia, Tuscany, Northern Italy. The rare figures are of carved wood with the boys' tunics shaped in 'Cartapesta' , a late mediaeval Italian tradition similar to 'Papier Maché'. The original bottom plinths have been more recently mounted on later wooden triangular bases for increased balance. The 'Torchere' figures with their outstretched arms holding torches are 57 inches (145cm) tall. overall. The figures date from the end of the 17th Century although the original paint and gilding will be beneath later layers.