Franz Werner von Tamm

Dr. Thomas Sherlock, Bisoph of London (1678-1761), by circa 1750, and thence by descent to his nephew;
Sir Thomas Gooch, 3rd Bt., Benacre Hall, Suffolk, and thence by descent in the Sherlock Gooch family until probably the early 20th Century;
Anonymous sale: Christie's, London, 9 April, 2003, lot 62, where acquired by
With Rafael Valls, London;
From whom acquired by the present owner.

Biella, Chiostro of San Sebstiano, "Fiore: Cinque Secoli di Pittura Floreale, March 21- June 27, 2004, exhibition catalogue by A. Negro, cat. nos. 93-94.

Both copper plates are flat and in good state. The first picture, containing the group of large carnations has scattered retouches running along the top edge of the composition. This line of repair could possibly be from rubbing due to a prior frame. The center of the middle, white carnation has some retouches, but this appears to be localized to the center of this particular flower. In the other composition, there is a group of four white flowers in the top center of the composition. The center of these flowers appear to be new, or have been repainted, as they fluoresce under UV. Similar to the first picture, there is a very thin line of repair along the top edge, possibly due to rubbing from an old frame. Otherwise, both pictures are in good condition, with no major areas of loss or damage. Good retention of paint in both compositions. Both pictures are in carved and giltwood frames.
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.

This pair of pictures on copper, an unusual but not unique support in Tamm's oeuvre, are dated 1699, and thus are amongst the few dated works of the artist.  Having achieved success painting lush floral still lifes for Roman aristocrats, Tamm moved back north at some time about the time that the present pair was painted.  He is recorded as still in Rome in a census 1696, but by 1701 he was in Vienna working for Emperor Leopold.