Agostino Carracci

Sir Joshua Reynolds (L.2364);
A.M. Champernowne (L.153);
Dr and Mrs Francis Springell,
their sale, London, Sotheby's, 30 June 1986, lot 56, not reproduced, where bought by the present owner

Newcastle upon Tyne, The Hatton Gallery, The Carracci, 1961, no. 36

Unframed. Window mounted. Surface dirt and minor staining at the right-hand corners. Generally in good condition. The drawing is rather stronger and darker than in the catalogue illustration.
"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."

The two old inscriptions on this tiny drawing indicate that the distinction between Agostino and Annibale has long been unclear to collectors.  The drawing belonged to Dr and Mrs Francis Springell who formed a very fine collection of Old Master Drawings, particularly strong in the works of Wenceslaus Hollar, on whom Dr Springell wrote a book.  The introduction to their 1986 sale catalogue was written by their friend, the distinguished curator of drawings at the National Gallery of Scotland, Keith Andrews.  See also lot 50.