Johann Moritz Rugendas

George Hellmann, Tacna (commissioned from the artist. The brothers George, Richard and Edward Hellmann were merchants based in Tacna, San Francisco and London respectively); thence by descent to the present owner

The canvas has been laid down onto board. Under ultra-violet light the old varnish layers fluoresce making the surface difficult to read, however a number of signs of retouching are visible, notably tiny spots in the figure's face and some small areas of strengthening in the lower part of the figure's legs, the background in the lower part of the composition, and a stroke at the centre of the upper framing edge. The work could benefit from a light surface clean. Presented in a decorative gilt 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."

Rugendas first travelled to South America in 1821 to accompany Baron von Langdorff’s scientific expedition to Brazil. On his return to Europe between 1825 and 1828, he published his monumental book Voyage pittoresque dans le Brésil, with more than one hundred illustrations. It became one of the most important documents about Brazil in the nineteenth century. Rugendas' aim was 'to truly become the illustrator of life in the New World'. In 1831 he travelled to Haiti, and Mexico; from 1834 to 1844 he journeyed through Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, Peru and Bolivia, finally returning to Rio de Janeiro in 1845. Feted by the court of Emperor Dom Pedro II of Brazil, he executed portraits of several members of the royal court before returning to his native Germany in 1846.