Giovanni Battista Castello Genoa 1549 - 1639

Sale, London, Christie's, 19 April 1988, lot 42

Genoa, Palazzo Bianco, Gio. Battista Castello, Il Genovese, 1990, p. 33, cat. no. 11, reproduced

Laid down on stiff card, cut in strange way around edges, and made up by another hand. Top edge rather worn; losses at right side middle and left edge.
"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 the 1990 Genoa exhibition catalogue, Clario di Fabio suggested that this work derives from the examples of Paggi or even Lomi, but also noted northern influences. The facial types are perhaps more reminiscent of Vanni or Salimbeni, or even Heintz, but no precise connection has been found.  Castello did, of course, make copies after the works of other artists.¹
Another gouache by Castello of this composition, with some differences and less accomplished, was sold London, Christie's, 5 July 2005, lot 29.

1. See exhib. cat., Genoa 1990, nos. 12-14