Richard Karlovich Zommer

The collection of Mr Böhme, a German engineer based in Russia
Acquired from Mr Böhme's widow by Adolf Wagner, Berlin
A gift from the above to his nephew
Thence by descent to the previous owner

Original canvas. There is a layer of light surface dirt and some surface scratches. There is some light abrasion to the paint surface at the centre of the right hand edge. UV light reveals no apparent retouching. Held in a dark gold painted wooden frame with some chips to the paint. Unexamined out of frame.
"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."

The present work is thought to depict Imam Shamil (1797-1871), the fearless Dagestan-born leader who united Caucasian tribes to fight for independence against the better equipped Russian Imperial Army in the early 19^th century.

 

Historically, the Caucasus consisted of independent principalities and smaller states. At the turn of the 19^th century Russia began a campaign to absorb this strategically critical strip of land between the Black Sea and the Caspian into the Empire, which prompted the indigenous Muslim tribes to declare a religious war on Russia.