Donato Creti

With Jean Luc Baroni, Colnaghi Drawings, New York, Old Master Drawings, May 1987, no. 32, reproduced;
Private Collection, New York;
with Colnaghi, New York, Old Master and 19th Century Drawings, January 1995, no. 24, reproduced

 

Window mounted and laid down on japan paper. Very few pin point holes on the right margin towards the bottom. Slight surface dirt, some traces of very slight staining at the top to the right. The drawing was possibly lightly cleaned it is in quite good condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Creti's drawings, often beautifully finished landscapes in pen and ink, as well as figure studies and portraits or compositional studies such as the present one, were highly regarded and appreciated by his contemporaries.  Some of his more finished drawings were done as works of art in their own right.