Sebastiano Lazzari

Musical Instruments: The painting overall is in good condition, it has a modern relining but the paint layer is well retained. Minor frame abrasions to the upper center and left hand edges are visible. Inspection under UV reveals scattered minor retouching particularly concentrated in the central music sheet. There is a repaired puncture of approximately 2 by 2 in. upper right by the neck of the guitar. Paintings and Engravings: The canvas has a new relining but the impasto is nicely retained. Inspection under UV reveals scattered retouching throughout, mostly visible in the borders of the pages. There is a repaired vertical tear of approximately 6 in., lower center, and another of approximately 5 in., lower right and a larger area of retouching where there may have been damage between the two tears. There is no need for further work on either painting, they present fresh and decorative images and are ready to hang. Both are offered in modern wood frames.
"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."

Active in Verona in the second half of the 18^th century, Lazzari specialized in particular in the present kind of works, still lifes set against highly detailed wooden planks, otherwise known as 'finto asse'. Placed against the planks are various objects often seen in Lazzari's compositions: mathematical and architectural sketches, musical instruments, as well as paintings, red chalk figure drawings, repetitions of engravings. Lazzari's highly personalized approach to trompe l'oeil painting proved successful in the Veneto region, as demonstrated by the activities of his followers and imitators Francesco Bossi, Giovanni Battista Bertoldi and the artist known only by the monogram GF (a comparable picture by this follower of Lazzari can be seen, F.Zeri, La Natura Morta in Italia, Milan 1989, p. 381, cat.no. 453).