Giovanni Lanfranco

Laid down. The sheet has even edges. There are a number of brown stains and discoloration throughout. There are some red chalk stains more concentrated at the lower left corner, probably studio stains and there are also thicker pieces of gouache at the lower section of the sheet. There is a crease running horizontally across the middle of the sheet and there are abrasions/ areas that look bleached, evident in the head studies and at the upper right margin. Black chalk remains fairly strong and image still readable despite the condition issues.
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.

These studies are very close to figures in Lanfranco's Triumph of the Cross in the Cappella del Santissimo Crocifisso, St Peter's, Rome (fig. 1).¹ The two head studies depicted here may represent the same figure, and even though in reverse, could be related to the small cherub figure in the upper right section of the fresco.  The female figure with her arm raised, looking upwards, could be preparatory for the draped female figure seated on a cloud, directly in front of the cherub. ^1. G.P. Bernini, Giovanni Lanfranco (1582-1647), Comunita di Terenzo 1982, p. 160, no. I-B