- 33
German School, circa 1560
Estimate
2,000 - 3,000 USD
bidding is closed
Description
- the judgement of cambyses
- Pen and black ink over traces of black chalk;
inscribed with color notes
Provenance
Purchased 1921
Condition
Laid down. Horizontal fold across centre. Light water stains at left side, a few other minor stains and some surface dirt. Ink good and 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.
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.
Catalogue Note
Cambyses was king of the Persians and Medes in 6th Century B.C. He punished a corrupt judge by executing him, flaying his skin and stretching it to form the seat of judgement. The judge's son, who was then appointed in his father's place, was warned by Cambyses to 'never forget in what way his seat was cushioned' (Herodotus 5:25).
The fact that the composition is only worked up in the central area suggests that the design was probably one of a series, with identical or similar borders. The unified space of the central composition argues for a date in the second half of the 16th Century, while the costumes appear to be of circa 1550. On balance the drawing would seem to date from around 1560.