Manner of Gabriele Capello (1823 - 1873) Italian, circa 1840

centered with a silk painted panel attributed to Vittorio Raineri (1797-1869)

Overall the condition of the screen is good, with some wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. Some of the joints between the sections of wood are slightly open but stable. There is minor evidence of past worming, notably to the frame of the silk panel. There are a few nicks to the wood, including to the top edge. There is a small loss to the ebony above the feet on the right side. There are a few chips and small losses to the feet. The columns on which the screen is supported are slightly unstable. The silk panel at the back has losses and fraying. There is a split to the silk panel at the front on the left side at the centre.
"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."

Capello was an artist whose work was of exceptional quality and inventiveness and his marquetry technique was very sophisticated creating a smooth, uniform surface, which enhanced the ingenious contrast of dark and light materials. A combination of these elements can clearly be seen on this lot, as well as motifs typical of his oeuvre incorporating flowerheads, foliage and stylised anthemia inspired by the designs of Pelagio Palagi (1775- 1860), with whom he collaborated extensively.

Both Carlo Antonio Raineri (1765-1826) and his son Vittorio (1797-1869) began their careers at the Brera Academia in Lombardy. They worked in the Neoclassical style of the time but soon both Father and son were to be influenced by the Scuola dâOrnato which specialised in highly decorative and ornate work. They became well known for their highly individual designs that were to be used on porcelain, fabrics, wallpapers and other architectural projects, usually oriental or chinoiserie in style. The prints in the catalogue are of a series of ornithological studies, a theme that the Raineriâs made extensive use of in their decorative schemes.