Francesco Guardi

Anonymous sale ('The Property of a Gentleman’), London, Sotheby’s, 1 November 1978, lot 62, as one of a pair, for £18,000 (to Mazzuto).

Overall the paint surface is well preserved. there are some very fine horizontal splits to the paper at the extreme left margin: in the sky immediately above the arch and in the central part, just above the pediment of the distant arch. There appear to be two stages of restoration; one very old and another more recent. These restorations, or rather retouchings, are really only evident in the sky. Sold with a wood and plaster glit frame, with several losses to the decoration.
"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."

We are grateful to Charles Beddington for confirming the attribution to Francesco Guardi after first-hand inspection of the original.