ITALIAN SCHOOL, CIRCA 1697 | A modello for a fan:Recto: Blind man's buffVerso: Flowers

Sale, London, Christie's, 9 December 1975, lot 115

Superb condition and painting.
"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."

Sold in an original cardboard case inscribed: Valentino Coronati, 1697, Lady Holeys. The mention in the inscription of 'Lady Holeys' could refer to Lady Eleanor Holles (1639? - 1708), daughter of John Holles, 2nd Earl of Clare (1595-1666). John Holles was born in Haughton, Nottinghamshire and a member of parliament, brother-in-law of Thomas Wentworth (1593-1641), 1st Earl of Strafford of the 1st creation, an English statesman and a major figure in the period leading up to the English Civil War. Lady Eleanor Holles lived in Greek Street (now Soho), where she possessed a substantial quantity of silver, watercolour pictures, an emerald ring and rows of pearls that she bequeathed to her large family of sisters, nieces and nephews. She also endowed a Christian foundation "to produce young women of grace and integrity", now the Lady Eleanor Holles School in Hampton, London.

It is probable that Valentino Coronati was a dealer who supplied this fan leaf during a Grand Tour, or via contacts in London.