Ippolito Caffi

Canvas appears to be unlined. Surface is clean. The painting is in overall good condition and is presentable in its current state. Examination under UV: the painting seems to have been selectively cleaned which makes it fluoresce unevenly. There are some scattered small retouches to foreground and figures, some also on architecture at left and center right, and in sky at upper right.
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.

After training in Padua and Venice, Ippolito Caffi moved to Rome in 1832 and then traveled extensively throughout Italy and Europe.  A prolific painter, he built on the perspective methods developed by Canaletto and published a textbook on the subject in 1835.  This unfinished view of the Piazza della Signoria exhibits his exceptional drawing skills, particularly in the architectural renderings of the Loggia dei Landi, and provides the modern viewer with an insight into the artist's working methods.