Lot 80
  • 80

Albrecht Adam

Estimate
30,000 - 50,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • Albrecht Adam
  • The Rescue of Count Münnich
  • oil on canvas laid on board
  • 84 by 112cm., 33 by 44in.

Provenance

Baroness Victoria von Schlotheim (b. 1948, cousin of Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands, and related to Friedrich Franz Graf von Münnich)
Purchased from the above, circa 1960

Condition

Oil on canvas laid on board. The board is flat, even, and ensuring a stable support. There is some hairline craquelure throughout, however not too distracting. Ultra-violet light reveals spots of retouching along the lower framing edge and scattered areas of what appears to be strengthening, notably in the horse to the left, in the horse of the carriage and to the centre of the composition. The picture could benefit from some professional cleaning. Overall, the work is in good condition and ready to hang. Presented in a 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."

Catalogue Note

This painting recounts the heroic tale of Friedrich Franz Graf von Münnich, Lord Steward to Duke Peter Friedrich Ludwig von Oldenburg. He was wounded in a battle fought between the Russian-German legion and Napoleon. The Count is being rescued in a sleigh drawn by four horses. Accompanied by several Cossacks wearing the Tsar’s green uniform and followed by another coach of civilians, he is being evacuated to safety. Münnich’s family had been in the service of the Russian Tsars since 1721, which may explain his Cossack cap.