Domenico Antonio Vaccaro

Comissioned by Paolo Perrella to decorate a casket for Charles II of Spain (1661-1700);
Dr. Grandauer, Munich.

The paintings are slightly warmer in tone the the catalogue illustrations suggest. The two supports consist of single flat and stable panels. The paint surfaces are stable and appear in good condition under the slightly discoloured varnish. Minor scattered stengthenings flouresce under UV light. Overall in good condition but removal of the olf varnish would gretaly improve the overall tonality. Offered in elaborate carved gilt wood frame with some 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. 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."

These two panels were part of Paolo Perrella's commission for a series of decorative paintings adorning a casket intended as a gift for Charles II of Spain.  The commission was abandoned at his death in 1700 and the casket never assembled.  All other known works from this commission are on copper, including a pair of slightly smaller works in a private collection, Naples (exhibited Naples, Museo Nazionale di Capodimonte, Ritorno al Barocco, 12 December 2009 - 11 April 2010, pp. 296-97, cat. no 1.161.b, reproduced in colour).  We are grateful to Professor Riccardo Lattuada for pointing out that, despite the medium, these panels were undoubtedly intended for the same casket, and were probably executed for some wooden features at the sides or at the corners.