Lelio Orsi

Probably Nicholas Lanier (a star similar to his mark L.2886);
Robert Udny (L.2248),
his sale, London, T. Philipe and Scott, 4-10 May 1803, lot 304 (for £19);
William Esdaile (L.2617),
his sale, London, Christie's, 18 June 1840, lot 162, sold with another lot by Orsi for £2.6.0;
Possibly Thomas Thane (possibly his mark T Th in chalk on the back of the mount);
Sale, New York, Sotheby's, 28 January 1998, lot 4;
with P. & D. Colnaghi, London

 

 

Laid down on the old (Esdaile?) mount. Some wear overall. Old crease across middle. Tear at middle left edge, possible small loss made up at bottom left corner
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 highly finished design is characteristic of Orsi's penmanship and figure type, although more serene than some of his rather dramatic compositions.  Many easel paintings by him survive, but Orsi's numerous documented wall and façade frescoes have largely perished and can only be imagined through his surviving drawings. He also designed temporary decorations and objects.¹  The present work was probably intended for a wall decoration, with an illusionistic architectural setting. The drawing shares some similarities with a study of Two Herms, sold London, Sotheby's, 2 July 1997, lot 41, which bore an 18th century attribution to Giulio Romano on the mount, an interesting reflection of the fact that Orsi was influenced by Giulio's work early in his career.

1. See, for example, Lelio Orsi, exhib. cat., Reggio Emilia, Teatro Valli, 1987-88, nos. 114, 116, 121