LOT DETAILS
Materials:
oil on canvas
Measurements:
25.71 in. (65.30 cm.) (height) by 31.30 in. (79.50 cm.) (width)
Condition:
The following condition report is provided by Henry Gentle who is an external specialist and not an employee of Sotheby's: Francesco Guardi The Grand Canal Oil on canvas, in a later gilt frame. The original canvas has been lined approximately 80-100 years ago. The lining is dry and inert and the tacking edges have degraded but it still imparts sufficient tension. The paint layer is in a very good original condition with the paint texture very well preserved. The more pronounced areas of paint impasto, including the highlights to the buildings, water and figures, are in a good preserved state and; overall, the painting does not appear to have been affected by any previous conservation intervention. The black pigment, used in the shadows and to outline figures and architectural features, appears a little thin in places, however, this is a result of natural ageing and does detract from the crispness or definition to these areas. Under u-v light some small and very minor restorations can be detected across the image. Removal of an older discoloured varnish in the paint interstices will enhance the vibrancy and intensity of the image. "This lot is offered for sale subject to Sotheby's Conditions of Business, which are available on request and printed in Sotheby's sale catalogues. The independent reports contained in this document are provided for prospective bidders' information only and without warranty by Sotheby's or the Seller."
Literature:
G.A. Simonson, ; Francesco Guardi 1712–1793, London 1904, reproduced opposite p. 32, probably the picture listed on p. 89, no. 84.
Provenance:
Private collection, Europe; ; Thence by descent for over a century until sold, ('The Property of a European Family')London, Christie's, 9 July 2015, lot 46; ; Acquired at the above sale by the present owner.