Jan van der Straet, called Stradanus

Sale, London, Sotheby's, 7 December 1978, lot 28 (as Roman School, early 17th century), purchased by Ralph Holland

Newcastle, 1982, no. 49 (as Roman School c. 1605-1615)

Hinged at the top. An old fold in the middle and a strip of paper at the top margin from the center to the right, pasted by the artist to complete the top of the composition. Some losses to the the left on the upper margin. A stain to the left at the level of the capitol of the column and a few other smaller stains scattered around but not visible at the bottom edge. Some small pieces of paper. From the verso some modern small pieces of paper pasted to reinforce where the paper had thin cracks. Overall the drawing is strong and color still fresh.
"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."

The style of this drawing is typical of Stradanus.  It must relate to an ephemeral decoration celebrating either Camillo Borghese, who became Pope Paul V in May 1605, or his nephew Scipione, who became a cardinal in July 1605.  Two vertical compositions with generalised military scenes flank the central panel and, as Mr. Holland noted, in both tablets below them the name SIPIONE can be read.  Above the left one is a cardinal's hat surmounting the Borghese arms.  The papal coat-of-arms in the centre is above an allegorical representation of Minerva flanked by two female figures, with two male prisoners below.  It is possible that this 'apparato festivo' relates to the Cardinal nipote more than to the Pope himself.  It appears that Stradanus was active until the very end of his life.  He seems to have finished his last work just before his death, aged eighty-two, a 'testa di christo fatta a olio' for the Compagnia di Santa Barbara, whose chapel was in the church of the SS. Annunziata.   Stradanus died on 4 November 1605, and was buried in that same chapel.