Lot 9
  • 9

GIOVANNA GARZONI | Portrait of a North African, possibly an Abyssinian

Estimate
5,000 - 8,000 GBP
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Description

  • Giovanna Garzoni
  • Portrait of a North African, possibly an Abyssinian
  • Watercolour and bodycolour on vellum, mounted on card, gilt-metal frame;signed and dated verso: Giovanna Garzoni F. / Torino 1635
  • 58 by 48 mm.

Provenance

Sale, Geneva, Christie's, 14 November 1989, lot 209

Literature

Casale, 1991, pp. 19 & 55, no. A5

Condition

Some loss to the blue ground around margins. Specks of grime on lace collar. The red pigment used for the doublet is crazing and beginning to flake.
"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

Painted while Garzoni was working in Turin for the Duke of Savoy, this remarkable portrait appears to be one of the earliest depictions, in miniature painting, of a native African sitter. His identity is currently unknown, however the richness of his clothes may indicate that he held a position at Court.