Sigismonda Caula

Window mounted. The sheet has discoloured somewhat however remains in good condition otherwise. There are some slight areas of surface dirt, recto, and some dark brown stains and foxing, verso. There are some small losses to the white heightening, recto, however otherwise the medium is in good condition throughout. Sold mounted and framed in a modern giltwood 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."

Characteristic of Caula's painterly and broad style, this sheet can be compared to similar figure studies, executed in the same media, which bear traditional attributions to the Modenese artist.  Among these, a particularly close comparison can be made with the study of Two seated Bearded Male Figures, in the Metropolitan Museum, New York,¹ and also a sheet in the British Museum, A figure kneeling in profile before a Crucifix, formerly in Benno Geiger collection.²

¹ Inv. no. 61.143; J. Bean, 17th Century Italian Drawings in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York 1979, no. 124, reproduced
² Inv. no. 1920-12-20-1; B. Geiger, Handzeichnungen alter Meister, Vienna 1948, reproduced pl. 60