卡羅·安東尼奧·拉伊内里

All on relined canvas; one with the "Coucou bleu" has been laid down on board which has been backed with canvas. There are scattered scuffs and abrasions, but overall the paint surface has been well retained and detail and coloration on the birds has been well preserved. There is some discoloration and unevenness in the backgrounds. Examination under UV light: "La Grand Linotte des Vignes" - there is a wide band of retouching along left edge; some also along upper and right edges; some small retouches to parrots and a few others scattered in background. "Martin Pecheur" - only one or two small retouches in background and one tiny retouch on flying bird. "Coucou Bleu" - some paint losses at top edge and background upper left; there are retouches all along both right and left sides; others are scattered throughout background. Only a few very small retouches to birds. These paintings could be hung as is and present a very attractive and decorative group. However, with some sensitive restoration their appearance could be improved. Offered in simple gold painted wood frames with nicks and 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.
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.

Carlo Antonio Raineri specialized in decorative paintings featuring  birds, plants  and butterflies.  He decorated numerous villas and residences in Lombardy including Villa Reale di Monza and the palazzi Perego and Anguissola in Milan.  This set of paintings dates from his time in Genoa, where he lived and worked from 1794-1801. While he strove for a degree of scientific accuracy in his avian renderings (some are based on prints published in Comte de Buffon's, Histoire Naturelle des Oiseaux, Paris 1770-1786) others are somewhat free interpretations. His charming compositions also reflect the 18^th century vogue for chinoiserie wallpaper designs.