- 423
A set of four Italian paintings on glass depicting the four Elements, after Louis de Boullogne the Younger, Venice late 18th century
Estimate
15,000 - 20,000 GBP
bidding is closed
Description
- Glass
- each: 52cm. high, 66cm. wide; 1ft. 8¼in., 2ft. 2in.
within later giltwood frames
Provenance
Sotheby's London, Paintings, Furniture and Works of Art from the collection of Gianni Versace Villa Fontanelle, Moltrasio, 18 March 2009, lot 216
Literature
Related literature:
H. Guicharnaud, “Le Quartre Eléments de Louis de Boulogne: etudes préparatoires,” in Revue du Louvre, No. 4, 1985, pp. 265-274
Condition
In good condition, retaining vibrant colours. Some losses to the reverse-painted surface, as per catalogue photograph.
"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
The composition is after a series of four paintings by Louis de Boullogne the Younger (Paris, 1654-1733) representing the Elements and which had become known throughout Europe thanks to engravings by Charles Depuis (Air in 1718 and Earth in 1721) and Louis Desplaces (Fire in 1717 and Water in 1718). A version by Boullogne of Fire, or Venus in the Forge of Vulcan, sold Sotheby's New York, The Courts of Europe, 30 January 2014, lot 118.
Earth, represents the triumph of Cybele, seated between Bacchus and Ceres on a chariot drawn by two lions and surrounded by maidens, satyrs and putti. Fire shows Venus seated on a cloud and accompanied by the Three Graces and Cupid, ordering Vulcan to make arms for her son Aeneas (Aeneid, VIII, 365-396). Water represents Neptune on a horse-drawn scallop-shell with a nymph, surrounded by further tritons and nymphs. Finally, Air shows Juno asking Aeolus to unleash the winds against Aeneas' fleet (Aeneid, I, 54-85).