Luca Cambiaso

Giuseppe Vallardi (L.1223)

Surface dirt, especially at bottom edge. Creases across lower third of paper. Small losses, as on foot bottom center, and several along left edge - all repaired. Watermark is coat of arms with fleur de lys and crossed staves, surmounted by star.
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 very vigorous work is characteristic of Cambiaso's early drawings made soon after his return from Rome.  It can be compared with others such as the Silenus Drinking, now in Princeton,¹ in which the influence of Michelangelo's monumental style is evident.  The subjects of these early drawings are often combats or scenes of frantic activity.  Within a few years, Cambiaso's style had achieved a greater equilibrium.  This drawing can be dated around 1547-48 and has not been connected with a surviving work.  We are grateful to Mary Newcome Schleier for confirming the attribution to Cambiaso.

1. See Luca Cambiaso, exhib. cat., Austin, Texas, Blanton Museum of Art, et al., 2006-7, p. 228, no. 9