Gherardo Poli

The paintings are warmer in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests. Both canvases have effective relinings which have not flattened the paint surface. Both appear to the naked eye to be in good condition, and are clean, with the impasto well preserved. Small localised losses and abrasions can be made out in the sky. UV light reveals very minor scattered retouchings in the figures and some minor old frame abrasion. Retouchings are more frequent in the sky, though these have been applied sympathetically and are not obtrusive. The paintings are otherwise in good original condition. Offered in carved and gilt wood frmaes in good condition Could hang now.
"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."

Both this and the following lot are fine unpublished examples of the genre of painting in which Gherardo and his son Giuseppe specialised. Their fantastical cityscapes or capricci are populated with hundreds of bustling figures, their compositions heavily inspired by the engravings of Jacques Callot and Stefano della Bella. Although Gherardo was born in Florence, both artists were active for most of their lives in Pisa and a number of their capricci are inspired by real views of the squares in either Pisa or Florence, thus appealing to both local and foreign patrons alike. The theatrical nature of their scenes is heightened by their stage-like setting: fantastical buildings, loosely inspired by real architecture, act as a backdrop to the weaving lines of protagonists, whose colourful costumes not only increase their decorative quality but also characterise the work of both artists.