David Roberts, R.A.

Sotheby's, London, 10 November 1981, lot 11;
Private collection

The canvas has been lined. There are some frame abrasions near the upper right edge, otherwise the work appears in good overall condition. Ultraviolet light reveals areas of retouching along the edges, a small vertical line in the sky above the horizon near left edge, a vertical line at the steps in the lower left, some close to the figures in the foreground near the centre and a spot to the townscape near the centre; some further flecked areas in the sky. Held in original gilt plaster frame (losses).
"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."

In style and composition, the present work relates closely to Roberts' Rome, Sunset from the Convent of Sant Onofrio on the Janiculum (National Gallery of Scotland), which he exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1855, and which was dated a year later, 1856. This vast canvas, measuring 84 by 168in., presents a panorama of Rome, viewed from the elevated terrace of the Sant Onofrio convent on Janiculum. At its exhibition at the R.A. in 1855, Prince Albert hailed it, 'the most magnificent work of art of modern times'. The painting was based on numerous sketches made from Roberts' visit to Rome in 1853-4, the main intention of his visit being to paint the interior of St Peter's, of which four large oils and a number of studies of this subject are known. A smaller oil sketch for Rome, Sunset from the Convent of Sant Onofrio on the Janiculum also exists in the National Gallery of Scotland's collection. It has been suggested the present work, dated 1861, was perhaps another study for the large oil and finished at the later date.