Lot 16
  • 16

A large Faenza albarello last quarter fifteenth century

Estimate
30,000 - 50,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • pottery
  • 34cm., 13 1/2 in.
the slightly waisted cylindrical body painted with a brightly coloured laurel wreath medallion enclosing a profile portrait  of a noblewoman, her hair drawn into a fine net and leaving a thick outward roll, a rope of jewellery across her ample bosom, above a drug label inscribed s.de.suco.acetose, against a ground of tightly scrolling foliage and flowers in blue, the foot and shoulders with line and foliate borders

Condition

Several cracks at neck and foot strengthened, sprayed over and repainted; two extending to the body. No pieces appear to be missing. Minor rim chips and flaking.
"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."

Catalogue Note

The features and jewels of the lady portrayed are similar to those of two other examples in the Damiron collection, Lyons.

According to Giuliana Gardelli (Italika, Maiolica Italiani del Rinascimento, Saggi e Studi, Faenza 1999, pp. 338-339), the figure depicted might be nonna Strozzi, who married Bernardo di Nicola Barbagiani in1489, when a double medal was struck by Niccolo Spinelli. This piece, and the Damiron albarelli, might therefore possibly have formed form part of a wedding service for the couple. This hypothesis would also of course suggest an attribution to Tuscany rather than Faenza