Carlo Innocenzo Carlone

With Frost & Reed, London;
From whom purchased by Denys Sutton, 20 December 1955;
Thence by descent to the present owner.

London, Royal Academy, Winter Exhibition, Italian Art and Britain, 1960, no. 274.

A. Barigozzi Brini and K. Garas, Carlo Innocenzo Carloni, Milan 1967, p. 81.

Old glue relining is firm and stable. in general the paint surface has been well retained, but impastos have been pressed in the relining. under a dirty varnish. there is a very small hole in sky at upper right. under UV: it is difficult to read through the old varnish. there is retouching throughout the sky and clouds. smaller ones can be seen here and there in figures. Offered in a carved and gilt wood frame with loose pieces at the corners and some losses.
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.

This lively canvas is a bozzetto for The Glorification of Count Pietro Lechi, Carlone's ceiling in the main hall of the Villa Lechi at Montirone, Brescia, executed between 1745-1747.¹ The fresco was conceived as a monument to the Count, but it is simultantaneously a celebration of the triumph of reason. Reason, who is centrally located and holding a spear, is surrounded by Wisdom (holding a mirror), Advice (holding a book), and Knowledge (holding a torch). Around them are various Gods and allegories of the Brescian rivers. The completed fresco follows the bozzetto rather faithfully. Carlone introduces an additional figure group in the top center portion

1. see P. Krückmann, Carlo Carlone 1686-1775: Der Anbascher Auftrag, exhibition catalogue, Landshut 1990, p. 63, reproducecd in color.