Giovanni Battista Piazzetta

Laid down on an 18th-century, French-style mount. Paper may originally have been blue. Some surface dirt around the edges, but chalk very good and strong. Sold in an antique carved and gilded frame, probably English.
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.

Piazzetta established his international reputation as a talented draftsman very early in his career.  Whilst known as a slow painter, he was able to draw quickly enough to produce large finished head studies, known as têtes de caractère, which were very much in demand from collectors and connoisseurs.  These captivating and beautiful drawings of heads and half figures were intended as works of art in their own right to be framed and displayed on walls alongside painted compositions.  Most were executed in black and white chalk on blue paper.  The popularity of Piazzetta's head studies grew when his work attracted the attention of engravers. 

Here Piazzetta portrays a young shepherd boy with a staff, glancing upwards with a dream-like expression.  He has captured the innocence of youth, producing a sensitive portrait of a young boy.