Pier Francesco Mola

Probably Paul Ayshford Methuen, 4th Lord Methuen, R.A., F.S.A. (1886 - 1974), Corsham Court;
by descent until sale, London, Sotheby's, 3 July 1996, lot 7

Some foxing overall, a crease up the left-hand side and another at bottom edge right of center. Stuck down around edges to the mount, but verso still visible.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The pencil inscription on the verso recorded in the Corsham Court sale catalogue is now almost illegible.  It read: probably the / Miraculous / draft of fishes / A Mantegna B.1431. D.1505 / Italian Historical.
Compositions with boats are unusual in Mola's oeuvre, but there is a study of Venus imploring Aeolus on behalf of Aeneas, in the Kunstmuseum, Düsseldorf, and a dramatic study of men in a boat on a huge wave in the Nasjonalgalleriet, Oslo.¹ This drawing is more consistent with Mola's peaceful landscape views and is characteristic in its use of wash.

1. See Pier Francesco Mola, exhibition catalogue, Lugano, Museo Cantonale d'Arte, et al., 1989-90, p. 245, no. III. 39 and p. 275, no. III. 86