Mauro Gandolfi

With Rich, London, from whom purchased, circa 1958

Newcastle, 1964, no. 85 (as Gaetano Gandolfi)

Paper slightly yellowed in places at the top of the sheet. Ink has eaten into paper very slightly in two small places creating tiny cracks, both backed with small paper patches. Otherwise extremely good and 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. 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."

Both Gaetano and Mauro, his son, created this kind of attractive composition of stylish heads which must have been very much in demand with collectors and were sold as works of art in their own right.  Sometimes in such studies it is difficult to tell the artists apart, as Mauro, on his return from France in 1787, worked with his father until 1795, and the two artists pooled their experience and knowledge.  It appears that Gaetano started making this type of drawing from the 1770s.  Ralph Holland first exhibited this lovely study under the name of Gaetano but subsequently wrote in his notes: 'The dotting accompanying the hatchings suggests this is by Mauro rather than Gaetano Gandolfi.'