Niccolò Codazzi

Relined and under a very dirty and discolored old varnish. the paint surface has been generally well preserved with good imapstos and very nice detail in the architecture. there is old restoration visible to naked eye all around the outer edges, probably to address damage or rubbing from a previous frame. this is particularly noticeable along the right and top edges. there is an old crudely repaired compound tear at upper center in the arch just above the circular opening. examination under ultraviolet light shows retouching to the tear and around edges as mentioned previously; there is also an old repaired puncture in the entablature to the right of the circular opening and another in column at far right side. other small retouches scattered here and there. this painting has not been attended to in a long time and would benefit from sensitive restoration. the appearance should improve and it should be a very impressive painting. In a gilt wood frame with numerous chips and losses.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

We are grateful to Prof. David Marshall for confirming the attribution to Niccolò Codazzi; he dates this painting to the 1670s.  The composition is closely related to another painting by Codazzi in the collection of the Uffizi, Florence [Inv. 1890/5795, on deposit in the Museo Archeologico] (see D. R. Marshall, Viviano and Niccolò Codazzi and the Baroque Architectural Fantasy, Milan 1993, p. 349, cat. no. NC9, reproduced).