Very important pair of antique 19th century Italian Florentine ebonised wood and polychrome painted satyr couple. Origin; Italy, Victorian era, Possibly Venice. Circa 1880. Manner of Francesco Toso. Subject matter: The Devil & his Wife. Both male and female statues are masterfully sculpted with stunning life like details from their pointed horns on the top their heads, devilish menacing stares in their eyes, right down to their satirical animal hooves & slippers. Brief description: The wizard features elaborate Victorian period clothing with great attention to detail. Starting from the top, she is wearing a scarf in her hair, her collar is ruffled and the top of her bust features applied reticulated metal adornments with hanging crescent shaped charms. At first glance you would think her corset is made from leather as the carved wood, that retains the original paint, is quite convincing. Her flowing coat features a flared collar as well as lace-like reticulation to her sleeves. Her jacket features applied wood buttons and face forms on her pockets. She has one hand extended and one by her side holding a magic wand. Amazingly her finger still retains her original wedding ring with one remaining glass jewel. Her dress is decorated with fringe and alternating stripes. Lastly her feet are covered by laced slippers. The male satyr form features the very same level of high detail which includes his life like flowing hair to his pointed ears, devilish grin, mustache and goatee. He is wearing a Victorian era tail coat, with ruffled collar, vest and detailed buttons, all retaining the original paint. The hair on his legs right down to his hooves are clearly the work of a master craftsman, from a bygone era, No apparent markings. Male measures 47" x 12 1/2" x 16 1/2", female measures 47" x 12 1/2" x 12 1/2". Both are in good to fair antique condition, the wear consistent with age. Both the male and female having losses & previous restorations, retaining original patina. A rare opportunity to own this magnificent pair of sculptures, who will always happily greet your visitors at any entry way. Great conversation pieces, Museum Quality and Investment Worthy. Please note and reference : A similar pair Francesco Toso sold at Christies Paris Dec 12th - 14th 2018, Reference Catalog page 119. Hill Auction Gallery will not ship. We will refer a local third party shipper.