Bolognese School, 18th Century

The painting is a bit warmer in tone and has less contrast than the catalogue illustration suggests. The painting has a relining. The paint surface has flattened due to the relining, but is overall in stable and good condition, no damages are visible. Some retouched pinpoint paint losses are visible in the sky and in the architecture to the left. The paint surface is under a dirty and discoloured varnish layer. Inspection under UV-light confirms the aforesaid and reveals additional retouchings throughout, e.g. in the dome and building to the left, in the architecture to the right, and in the area of two figures in the background, as well as small scattered spots in the two monks. Offered in an ebony parcel gilt wood frame, in fair condition. (JD)
"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."

An attribution to Antonio Rossi (1700-1753) who was active in Bologna, should be considered. Compare for example the figure of the Franciscan monk to a similar one in a composition listed by Rolli as in a private collection, Bologna.¹

1. R. Rolli, Pittura Bolognese 1650-1800, Bologna 1977, p. 291, cat. no. 354a, reproduced fig. 354a.