Attributed to Johann Richter

Probably acquired by Sir Alexander Dick Cunningham, Prestonfield House, Edinburgh, in Italy in the 1730s;
Thence by descent at Prestonfield House until the 20th century. 

"The following condition report has been provided by Henry Gentle, an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. The original canvas is lined and the paint layer is stable and flat. The sky has been extensively and substantially repainted, likewise the pavement of the Piazza. There are discoloured restorations to minor paint losses to the buildings but otherwise the paint here is in a reasonable condition, many of the more delicate glazes to the shadows have been compromised, however. The removal of the discoloured varnish would enhance the tonality. Offered in a substantial gilt wood frame in good condition."
"This lot is offered for sale subject to Sotheby's Conditions of Business, which are available on request and printed in Sotheby's sale catalogues. The independent reports contained in this document are provided for prospective bidders' information only and without warranty by Sotheby's or the Seller."

The pavement of the Piazza San Marco in the present painting assists with the dating of the work. The Piazza was paved in the late thirteenth century with bricks laid in a herringbone pattern, punctucated with bands of light-coloured stone running parallel to the long axis, as can be seen in the present painting. However, in 1723 the bricks were replaced by darker trachyte stone with a more complex geometrical pattern in white Istrian stone designed by Andrea Tirali. We can therefore conclude that Richter painted this work prior to 1723.

Another depiction of this view of smaller dimensions, which includes some identical staffage, was sold London, Phillips, 4 December 1994, lot 49, as by Johann Richter.


A note on the Provenance:
Sir Alexander Dick Cunningham made his Grand Tour with the noted portraitist Sir Allan Ramsay (1713-1784) during the 1730s, thus spending much of his time amidst the artistic community in Italy. It is probable that he acquired this picture and much of his collection for Prestonfield House at this time.