About this lot

Description

Manner of Tiziano Vecellio, called Titian, late 16th Century Portrait of Alessandro Farnese, Pope Paul III (1468-1549), head and shoulders, in red oil on slate 27 x 21.50cm (11 x 8in)
Provenance: Acquired by the vendor's great-grandparents on the Grand Tour in Italy in the 19th Century and by descent Other Notes: The composition appears to be based, but in reverse, upon a portrait of Pope Paul III, seated, three-quarter length, in the Hermitage, attributed to Titian. The painting is inscribed on the reverse with the identity of the sitter, as connected with The School of Raphael and a collection No. 16
Late 16th Century probably. Oil which appears to be applied onto slate or other type of stone. There is a diagonal break in the stone at the top left corner. There is paint loss surrounding the break and some retouching. Apart from this area of damage the paint layer is stable and secure. There is a thick layer of glossy, yellowed varnish which is degraded and fracturing. The painting is held in a wooden frame with a backboard which has suffered from extensive, possibly active, woodworm.

Back to lot listings