Giovanni Boldini

Estate of the artist
Acquired by the family of the present owner before the 1990s

Emilia Cardona, Lo studio di Giovanni Boldini, Milan, 1937, pl. LXXII, illustrated
Ettore Camesasca (ed.), L'opera completa di Boldini, Milan, 1970, p. 38, no. 93
Tiziano Panconi, Giovanni Boldini, L’opera completa, Florence, 2002, p. 229, illustrated
Piero Dini & Francesca Dini, Giovanni Boldini, 1842-1931, Catalogo ragionato, Turin, 2002, p. 206, no. 367, catalogued; p. 207, illustrated

The sheet is laid on card, likely by the artist himself before he began the composition. The composition is strong and the pastel well preserved overall. There is a horizontal line of abrasion / pastel loss evident in the mid- point of the composition, that runs through the lower part of the black corset (visible in the catalogue illustration). A second horizontal line running across the top of the sheet (also visible in the illustration) would appear to be contemporary with the execution of the work, but almost certainly not intended to be part of the composition, and the result of wear over time. The blues in the pastel at the top of the skirt may have been lightly smudged, and there is little pastel loss (adhering to the glass). There is a small inverted 'U'-shaped crease / tearing to the lower left of the stamped signature and a very small tear ('nic') in the sheet in the background between the figure and the upper centre. Apart from accumulated surface dirt and yellowing of the paper over time, the work is in good, fresh overall condition. The catalogue illustration is reasonably accurate, however the flesh tones are warmer, fresher and more vibrant, and the blue in the figure's dress and fire place surround is lighter and fresher in reality. Presented in a decorative gilt frame, under glass.
"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."

Executed circa 1883.