- 236
Pietro Antonio Novelli
Estimate
5,000 - 7,000 GBP
Log in to view results
bidding is closed
Description
- Pietro Antonio Novelli
- Mercury leads Psyche to Mount Olympus
- Pen and black ink and touches of brown ink, and grey wash over traces of black chalk, within partial black and brown ink framing lines
Condition
Window mounted on japan paper and hinged by the upper edge to a modern mount. The bottom edge has previously been trimmed, otherwise this work is in very fine condition, with the medium fresh and vibrant throughout.
"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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
This highly impressive sheet depicts an episode from the story of Amor and Psyche, written by Platonicus as part of his Metamorphoses, and shows the moment when Psyche, accompanied by Mercury, is finally welcomed to Mount Olympus, the home of the Gods.
The drawing reproduces the central quadro riportato which Pietro Antonio Novelli painted in 1781 for the Stanza di Psiche in the Villa Borghese, Rome. In addition to the main ceiling painting Novelli painted four framing medallions, illustrating further episodes from the story.
The highly detailed execution of the present work indicates that it is a ricordo of the Villa Borghese painting, rather than a preparatory study.