Henry Fuseli, R.A. 1741 - 1825

Anonymous sale, Christie's London, 9 December 1980, lot 273 (£2,600)

The sheet is in excellent condition. There are no tears, creases or foxmarks and the medium is strong and fresh.
"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."

According to Professor David Weinglass, whilst in Rome from 1770-1778, Fuseli `lived under the intoxication of Michelangelo.' The seated nude on the recto of this sheet has clearly been inspired by Michelangelo’s figures in the Sistine Chapel which Fuseli so assiduously committed to memory.

This drawing dates from between 1795-1800 and almost certainly illustrates distinctive contraposto pose of the Prophet Daniel. On observing Michelangelo's image on the Sistine Ceiling, Vasari describes the prophet, 'writing in a great book, copying passages from other writings,' (Roberto Salvini and Ettore Camesasca, The Sistine Chapel, vol. 1, p. 214-215). Fuseli also drew a robed Prophet Daniel with the addition of putto (illustrated in G. Schiff, Johann Heinrich Füssli, 1973, cat. no. 1171).