Attributed to Giuseppe Cades

With Thomas Le Claire Kunsthandel, Hamburg; acquired in 2001

Laid down at all four corners. Some tiny holes with slight rust stains at the upper corners where drawing must have been pinned. There are some minor, pale fox marks and a small area of discoloration on the figure's right thigh. Otherwise condition is good, ink still very strong.
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.

This figure appears to be that of winged Saturn, or Cronus, the personification of Time.  The snake that entwines his body, with its tail in its mouth, is an ancient symbol of eternity.  Stylistically, the drawing is very close to a pen and ink study by Cades of Hercules Resting, in the Biblioteca Palatina in Parma, which is signed and dated G. Cades 1797.¹ It is also reminiscent of certain works by Scandinavian contemporaries of Cades, who infused his Roman Neoclassicism with a distinctively northern element.

1. See A. Cera, Disegni, Acquarelli, Tempere Di Artisti Italiani Dal 1770 ca. Al 1830 ca., Ozzono Emilia 2002, vol. I, no. 35