Lot 17
  • 17

Venetian School, circa 1600

Estimate
8,000 - 12,000 GBP
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Description

  • Bathsheba at her bath
  • oil on canvas, in a carved cassetta frame

Condition

The canvas has been relined. The paint surface is secure although abraded and some discoloured old retouchings are visible to the naked eye. There is a restored L-shaped tear upper right and a small restored damage centre left. Inspection under UV light reveals scattered retouchings throughout. Offered in a painted wooden frame with some losses on all sides.
"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."

Catalogue Note

The subject is taken from II Samuel 11:2-17. One evening while King David was walking on the roof of his palace he saw Bathsheba bathing and was immediately smitten with her. Bathsheba was, however, married to Uriah the Hittite, a commander in David's army. David sent Uriah to the front line in order that he should be killed in combat and subsequently married Bathsheba. David later did penance for his morally indefensible behaviour.