Lot 305
  • 305

Ippolito Caffi

Estimate
40,000 - 60,000 USD
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Description

  • Ippolito Caffi
  • Venice, a nocturnal view of Piazza San Marco with the Ducal Palace
  • signed lower left: Caffi
  • oil on canvas
  • 54 x 64 cm 67,5 x 68 cm 5 cm spessore

Provenance

With Caiati Sas Antichità, Milan;
From whom acquired in 2006. 

Condition

Canvas is unlined (with a strip relining at edges of the original canvas). Overall there is very good retention of the paint surface with lovely detail throughout. Examination under UV light reveals retouching along edges and at lower left corner. Other small retouches and inpaints of craquelure can be seen in Doges Palace, in ships and shadowed background at left, column at right, and here and there on figures and pavement. A few very tiny retouches in sky. These have all been well applied and there is no need for further work. Painting can be hung as is. Offered in a gilt wood frame with foliate design at corners.
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.

Catalogue Note

This moon-lit scene effortlessly captures the charm and mystery of Venice at night. By depicting such a prominent reflection of the moon over the lagoon Caffi also succeeds in introducing an additional source of light. 

Streetlights were officially inaugurated in Venice on 19 August 1843 so the painting must have been executed after that date.