School of Rembrandt Harmensz. van Rijn

Jean-Thomas Arrighi de Casanova, Duke de Padoue (1778-1853);
Thence by descent to the present owner.

The picture is in overall healthy condition. The canvas has an older relining. Under UV there are some minor retouches along the edge, which is possibly due to older frame abrasion. A couple of pin dot size retouches are visible in the sitters face. An older uneven varnish is applied throughout the picture, and though there may be some scattered retouches beneath this varnish, they are not perceptible. No major damages are visible and again, the painting is in healthy condition with very good retention of original paint. In a carved, giltwood frame.
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.

The composition follows that of Rembrandt's portrait of Hendrickje Stoffels in the Louvre, Paris (INV. 1751).

Jean-Thomas Arrighi de Casanova was the cousin in law of Napoleon, and served as a high ranking officer and diplomat in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. The title of duc de Padoue (duke of Padova) was bestowed upon him by Napoleon in 1808, under which title he served as Deputy and then Senator in the French Parliament through the 1840s.  Upon travelling through Spain as a leader of the cavalry of the guard, he returned to France, where he served in the newly assembled Grand Army of Germany, and fought in the battles of Aspern-Essling and Wagram. In 1810 he became a general inspector of cavalry and in 1812 he was given the command of all French troops on the North Sea coastline, from the Somme to the Elbe. His name appears on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.