Rudolf von Alt

signed and dated Rudolf Alt; a pencil sketch of the same subject on the reverse

The Second Baron Bloomfield
Private collector (by descent from the above and sold, Sotheby's London, June 21, 1984, lot 601, illustrated)

Paper is wavy; adhesive stains throughout the pencil sketch on verso, colors are fresh. Work is affixed to mat board with three paper hinges along top edge.
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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.

The eldest son of Benjamin Bloomfield, 1st Baron of Bloomfield John Arthur Douglas Bloomfield (1802-1879) became an attaché to Vienna at the age of sixteen.  Bloomfield's diplomatic career would continue throughout his life with posts in Lisbon, Stockholm, and St. Petersburg.  Bloomfield was named ambassador to Berlin in 1851 and reached his highest post as ambassador to Vienna in 1860.  On his retirement from service in 1871 he was created the Second Baron Bloomfield, providing him a seat in the House of Lords.  Bloomfield also owned a watercolor by von Alt's brother and fellow artist, Franz (see lot 230).