Francesco Fontebasso

Francesco Dubini (L.987a)

Window mounted. Glue stains at upper right and left corners from where the sheet has previously been laid down. Some light brown staining, more visible in the upper left section of the sheet, a circular brown stain more prominent just a the level of the lady's head who is carrying a vase. Very faint scattered foxing throughout sheet. Small nick in the paper at the upper left margin and a tiny tear, located about 2cm from the lower left corner. Red chalk remains vibrant and image still strong.
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.

Two paintings by Fontebasso of Rebecca at the Well have been on the art market, one in 1990¹ and one in 1996.²  Although Marina Magrini has not included these compositions in her monograph on Fontebasso³, the present drawing clearly relates to the painting sold in 1990 (fig.1).

1.  Sale, New York, Habsburg-Feldman, 9 January 1990, lot 48
2.  Sale, Paris, Renaud, 24 May 1996, lot 13
3.  M. Magrini, Francesco Fontebasso, Vincenza 1988