Jacob de Heusch

James Ashton, Queen Square, Bath;
His posthumous sale et al., London, Christie's, 12 July 1879, lot 33 (with companion) for 16 guineas.

The canvas has an old relining. There is some slight discolouration to some of the clouds at the upper left but otherwise the original colours remain. The paint surface has thinned somewhat at the lower left. The colours remain strong in all other areas. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals small scattered retouchings predominantly restricted to the sky and the arch at the left, as well as an area measuring approximately 5 by 7 cm to the left of the foreground figures. The figures, town, river, animals and boats are all largely free of retouchings. The work is offered in a molded gilt frame in good condition.
"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."

Another related view of the Tiber, taken from much the same viewpoint but with the composition extended to the left, was sold New York, Sotheby's, 4 June 1987, lot 113. The view is only partially true to life, for although the prominent  buildings in the centre distance are correctly those on the Aventine Hill, the right bank of the river omits the famous Ponte Rotto and the distant mountains are imaginary.