Follower of Antoine Caron

The single flat panel is cradled vertically and is embedded on the reverse with three reinforcing strips of wood which are securing the cracks in the panel. These cracks are visible on the front of the picture and have caused paint loss along them. These have been subsequently retouched. Other than along these cracks the paint surface is generally secure although the paint has thinned in some areas which have required retouching. Inspection under UV reveals further scattered retouchings throughout. Unframed.
"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."

The unusual subject depicts the massacres in Rome in 43 B.C. ordered by the Triumvirate of Octavian, Mark Anthony and Lepidus, who are seen enthroned on the right of the picture. Some twenty versions of this composition are known, all of them anonymous¹. The subject was probably drawn from Claude de Seysels Les Guerres des Romains which went through several editions between 1544 and 1560. These paintings were undoubtedly intended as a commentary upon contemporary events, in particular the savage repression of the French Protestants at the massacre of Vassy (1562) under the Duc de Guise, whose alliance with the Constable de Montmorençy and Jacques d'Albon de Saint-André was also known as the Triumvirate.

Another version of this composition, with some differences, was sold in these rooms, 5 July 2007, lot 111, for £21,600.

1. For the fullest discussion of these and the subject see J. Ehrmann, Antoine Caron, Paris 1986, pp. 21-26ff, figs. 3-8, and p. 221, figs. 247-252.