Giovanni Bartolena

Collezione Gerolamo Ganucci Cancellieri

J. Pelagatti, Giovanni Bartolena, Firenze 1970, tav. I, illustrato a colori

Oil on plywood. From a first hand inspection an irregular scratch (cm 4 circa) is visible below the signature and a woodworm hole lower left hand side. There are some small detaches over the background. The ultra violet light reveals light fluorescent varnish spread over the surface and dark lines along the perimeter of the figures (probably due to the artist's hand). It is suggested a careful cleansing. The overall condition as to the state of preservation is good.
"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."

Bartolena aveva avuto occasione di frequentare, grazie all'aiuto dello zio, la scuola di Giovanni Fattori, la cui influenza è chiara in Soldati di ronda. Il soggetto, la composizione, la luce e la solidità plastica ricordano gli insegnamenti del maestro della "macchia" con rimandi a In vedetta, ma arricchiti dall'elemento di trascuratezza e immediatezza tipico di Bartolena, che in tempi più maturi tenderà a una colorazione più intensa e sciolta, riadattando alla propria cifra stilistica la solidità della struttura compositiva di Fattori.