Circle of Michele Marieschi

Wax relined. under a very dirty and discolored old varnish. the paint surface has been pressed in the aforementioned relining and there are some scattered abrasions, but in general the painting still reads well and presents a strong image. there are some areas of seizing in the paint surface in water at bottom and a few tiny scattered losses. ultraviolet light reveals small filled losses in water near lower edge and other small retouches here and there; retouching scattered in sky and around edges. In an elaborately carved and gilt frame with losses to the gilding.
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 painting appears to depict a gondoliers' race on the Grand Canal.  Every year, beginning in 1315, Venice staged an elaborate celebration, known as the Regata Storica, to commemorate the arrival of Caterina Cornaro, the Queen of Cyprus, in Venice and with her, the beginning of Venice's powerful role in the Mediterranean. The highpoint of this event was the procession of the Bucintoro, the elaborate gilded boat that carried the Doge.  As a part of the festivities, the city's gondoliers competed in races, such as the one depicted here.