Amadeo Preziosi

Private Collection, France (acquired by the 1960s)

This work is in good condition, the image strong and the colours vibrant. The sheet has not been laid down and is hinged to the mount at the upper edge to the left and right. The sheet has slightly yellowed over time compared with the extreme edges which have been covered by a mat, and there is some staining to the lower part of the extreme left edge and upper part of the right edge (these parts covered by the mat and not visible framed). There is a minor faintly visible circa 2.5cm vertical repair near the centre of the lower edge, and a small tear in the far lower-left corner (not visible framed). Presented in a narrow gilt frame, the extreme edges of the sheet covered by the mat and not visible framed, 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."

Named after an Ottoman grand-admiral of Italian origin, the Kılıç Ali Paşa Mosque, visible in the background in this work, is surrounded by a complex of buildings including a madrasa, hammam, mausoleum, and fountain, designed and built between 1580 and 1587 by court architect Sinan. It is located in the Tophane neighbourhood of the Beyoglu district of Istanbul, whose name comes from the armory established on the hill nearby by Mehmet the Conqueror in 1453. With its elegant roof and dome, the Tophane fountain, which dominates the present view, resembles that of Ahmet III outside Topkapi palace. Each of its four walls is entirely covered in low-relief floral carving, which would once have been vividly painted.