AFTER GIOVANNI DOMENICO TIEPOLO | Head of a Bearded Man in Oriental Dress

oil on canvas The present canvas is a copy after Tiepolo's original 'Head of a Bearded Man in Oriental Dress',1 which is one of a group of fantasy portraits of philosophers and exotic figures created by Giandomenico and his father Giambattista Tiepolo, datable to 'circa' 1757. The paintings are of similar bust format and are of about the same size. All are beautifully realised compositions of bearded men, in fantastical costume, as in the present example. In this design, the fiercely confident sitter is shown in a lavish hooded cape of blue silk and gold silk brocade, closed with an elaborate gold clasp. 1 http://www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/ecatalogue/2018/master-paintings-evening-sale-n09812/lot.49.html

All paintings available to view at the Sotheby’s Greenford Park warehouse, 5 - 7 and 10 – 13 September (10 - 4pm), by appointment. The canvas has a firm relining, the paint surface is very dirty, and the varnish is very discoloured. Small parts of the paint surface have lifted slightly, but appear entirely stable beneath the varnish. There is also a degree of wear particularly in the background. Inspection under ultraviolet light is impeded by the thick, dirty varnish but there appear to be spot retouchings scattered in his face and beard, and in the area of wear to his left. From what is visible however the painting appears to be otherwise free of extensive restoration.
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