Attributed to Fabrizio Boschi

With Hal O'Nians, London, from whom purchased, November 1965

Laid down on an old backing which makes up the edges of the page. Hole at bottom left edge, near little cartouche. There is a horizontal crease across the middle of the sheet and a further tear or crease running vertically down near the column to the right.
"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."

Ralph Holland seems to have made the attribution of this drawing to the Veronese artist, Anselmo Canera, on the basis of comparision with a fresco decoration by Bernardino India and Canera in a room in the Villa Poiana, one of Palladio's villas in the Veneto.  The style of the drawing seems, however, more Florentine than Veronese and the figures are reminiscent of artists such as Boschi.  The form of decoration, with the painted figures in niches flanking a rather classical doorframe, is found throughout Italy.