HENRY FUSELI, R.A. | A seated woman in an interior, a robed male figure beyond

Hinge mounted along the upper edge. There is an old additional tab of paper added by the artist along the left edge. This has a small tear in the lower left corner and there are two further, very minor tears to the bottom edge. There is evidence of some minor surface dirt to the extremities of the sheet and a small brown stain to the centre. The combination of media remains extremely fresh throughout, with the image strong.
"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."

This drawing is reminiscent of those that Fuseli produced while living in Italy between 1770 and 1779. Upon his arrival in Rome he quickly fell under the combined influences of the antique, mannerism and Michelangelo. Here, working with dramatic light, elongated lines and a striking composition, he has created an image of great power, intensity and monumentality.

The drawing's subject has not yet been fully comprehended, although Professor David Weinglass has previously suggested that the pensive female figure may be Bathsheba, while the man behind might represent a messenger in the service of her admirer King David (2 Samuel, 11, 1-27).