Lot 4
  • 4

Friedrich Nerly

Estimate
60,000 - 80,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • Friedrich Nerly
  • The Palazzi Contarini-Fasan and Contarini, Venice
  • signed F. Nerly lower left
  • oil on canvas
  • 55 by 45cm., 21½ by 17¾in.

Condition

The canvas has not been lined. A very superficial horizontal stretcher mark is visible along the upper edge. Ultra-violet light reveals very minor scattered signs of cosmetic retouching along the framing edges. The picture is otherwise in good condition and ready to hang. Presented in a decorative gilt frame.
"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."

Catalogue Note

Nerly's view looks east along the bustling Grand Canal towards the Lagoon. Dating from the fifteenth century and built in the high Gothic style, the Palazzo Contarini-Fasan (the building with the triple-arched window on the first floor) is traditionally known as the home of Desdemona in Shakespeare's Othello.

Born Friedrich Nehrlich in Erfurt, Nerly moved to Hamburg at an early age following the death of his parents, where he became the protegé and pupil of artist and patron Baron Carl Friedrich von Rumohr. In 1828 Rumohr sponsored Nerly's first trip to Italy, which the young artist chose to adopt as his home. He spent the first six years in Rome, before settling permanently in Venice. He became so assimilated into Venetian culture that he italianised his name from Nehrlich to Nerly.