Francesco Zuccarelli Pitigliano, Umbria 1702 - 1788 Florence

Collection Chair d'Ertange (according to labels on the reverse).

The paintings are more yellow-green in tone than they appear in the catalogue illustrations. The canvases were relined some time ago and the linings still hold well. Both paintings appear to have been cleaned relatively recently and their varnish layers are only slightly discoloured. The paint surfaces are a little flattened by the relining and the reddish ground is showing through in certain areas, particularly in the foreground landscapes in both works. TOP (Fishermen): There is a line of restoration (approx. 1cm. wide) running along all four edges, more concentrated in the sky area and upper left. Inspection under ultra-violet light reveals a few minor retouchings in the tree centre left and sky upper left, as well localised strengthenings on the man in the lower left foreground (both he and the woman's legs have worn a little and seem to have been carefully retouched). A repaired damage occurs lower right, near the boy holding the net (approx. 2 by 6 cm.). BOTTOM (Crucifix): A band of restoration (approx. 1cm.) runs along all four edges, wider at the top and in the upper corners. There appears to be some strengthening to the foliage and foreground, probably beneath the present varnish, in an area to the left and below the leftmost figures. Inspection under ultra-violet light further reveals strengthening to the figures at the base of the cross as well as to the cross itself. Other than a few minor scattered retouchings in the sky, there are no further significant areas of restoration. On the whole the paintings are in reasonably good condition and they do not require any further attention. The matching later gilt wood frames have superficial knocks and damages but are generally in sound 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."

We are grateful to Dott.ssa Maria Silvia Proni for proposing an attribution to Zuccarelli from photographs.