Jean-Baptiste Lallemand Dijon 1716 - 1803 (?) Paris

Framed (not seen out of frame). Some surface dirt has collected at the vertical join of the two sketch-book pages (at the centre). There is also a vertical crease a third from the left edge. The sheet is lightly foxed throughout, and is a little worn at the edges, but overall is in very good condition, and the ink is still strong and fresh.
"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."

Thirteen other Italian views by Lallemand, identical to this in their media, scale and format, were sold London, Sotheby's, 14 April 1986, and it seems very likely that they and the present drawing were all originally made as part of the same project.  The drawings sold in 1986 included views of Naples, Rome and the Roman Campagna.  They had all been bought in 1799 by either Thomas, 7th Earl of Elgin, or his secretary William Hamilton, when they passed through Italy on their way to Greece and Constantinople, where Elgin was Minister Plenipotentiary to the Porte.