Apollonio Domenichini (formerly known as the Master of the Langmatt Foundation Views)

Both canvases have old sympathetic relinings and both are more yellow in tone than the catalogue illustrations suggest. They are both offered in matching gilt wood and plaster frames in good overall condition. The paint surface of the first (illustrated at the bottom of the catalogue page) is in good overall condition with no apparent damage or loss of paint except for a minor diagonal surface abrasion lower left and evidence of a well restored and repaired z-tear in the roof of the building which corresponds to an old patch on the revere. Otherwise there is surface dirt and a varnish overall. Examination under ultraviolet reveals the mottled varnish as well as minor flecks of old retouching visible in the sky and to the tear but otherwise there appears to be little intervention and the picture is in good country house condition. The second (as illustrated at the top of the page in the catalogue) is in good overall condition. There is a minor surface abrasion in the centre and upper left and also evidence of an old area of damage in the lower cloud which corresponds to a patch on the reverse. There is also extensive surface dirt and varnish. Ultraviolet reveals the same minor cosmetic flecks of scattered retouching and also retouching to an old small vertical repaired tear in the leaves of the tree centre left. Overall though both canvases are in good country house condition
"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."

There are very few views outside of Venice by this distinct hand. A slightly larger work showing the view across the River Brenta towards the Villa Pisani but depicted in the summertime, with the tree in full bloom and the window awnings rollled out, was sold in these Rooms, 11 December 2003, lot 43.