Giovanni Camillo Sagrestani

Anonymous sale, London, 3 April 1985, lot 159, for £4,500.

Both works have been recently relined, resulting in a flattened paint surface. The paint surfaces are secure. Inspection under ultraviolet lights reveals a thick varnish on both works. In the former, scattered retouching is revealed throughout. In the latter, scattered retouching is principally confined to the lower half, particularly around the central figure. Both works are offered in molded gilt frames, with a few knocks.
"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."

Giovanni Camillo Sagrestani, highly esteemed by the Florentine aristocracy at the turn of the 18th century, produced numerous cabinet paintings, the most sought-after of which were his exotic Turkish harem scenes. The Sultana Asleep exists in other versions with minor variations, the closest to the present work being that in the Palazzo Pitti, Florence.¹

1. See S.M. Trkulja, 'Monsu Riviera' in Scritti di Storia dell'arte in onore di Federico Zeri, Milan 1984 p. 771, reproduced figure 769.