Lot 4
  • 4

German School, 16th Century

Estimate
3,000 - 4,000 GBP
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Description

  • A mountainous landscape with buildings
  • Pen and two shades of brown ink, with touches of black and red chalk and white heightening, on light reddish-brown paper

Condition

Paper is rather thin throughout, with more significant thin areas below and right of centre, towards left edge, and in top corners. A few very small repaired tears at extreme edges. Repaired crack in paper towards lower right corner. Small repaired hole towards bottom centre, and three more in mountains, upper left. Some light surface spots in upper half of sheet. Ink generally a little sunk and faded, but composition still clearly legible. Sold in a wooden 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."

Catalogue Note

This intriguing drawing would seem to have been made by an artist who was very familiar with the works of Albrecht Altdorfer, although the motif of the perilously overhanging rock formation would be uncharacteristically theatrical, even for him.  In handling, the drawing can be compared with some of the rare drawings by Altdorfer's younger brother, Erhard Altdorfer (d.1561), such as his Virgin and Child with St. Anne, in Frankfurt.1 

1.  Städel Museum, inv. 15317; F. Winzinger, Albrecht Altdorfer Zeichnungen, Munich 1952, p. 106, no. 147, reproduced