Gaspare Diziani

Lapauze collection, Paris.

A.P. Zugni-Tauro, Gaspare Diziani, Venice 1971, p. 82, reproduced plates 97 and 98.

The catalogue illustrations are quite representative although the paintings are slightly warmer in tone than they appear in reproduction. Both canvases have been relined and the linings still hold well. The paintings have been cleaned and restored relatively recently and can be hung as they are. The paint surfaces are generally well preserved and retain the freshness of their original sketchy brushwork. Inspection under ultra-violet light reveals some in-painting of the craquelure pattern in the sky of 'Hagar and the Angel' and some very minor retouchings in the sky areas of both canvases, but the paintings are for the most part very nicely preserved. They are offered in matching gilt wood frames with ornate foliate motifs, in good condition (with only minor knocks).
"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."

Datable to 1740-47 according to Zugni-Tauro (see Literature), these charming works were undoubtedly conceived as bozzetti for as-yet unidentified easel paintings or altarpieces.

We are grateful to Lino Moretti for supporting the attribution to Diziani on the basis of images.