This lot consists of an oil painting on canvas, done in the elegant and technical style of Pompeo Girolamo Batoni (Italian, 1708-1787). This unframed piece measures approximately 32" x 25.5".

This piece offers a handsome portrait of a male figure dressed in the vestments of a Roman Catholic cardinal. The man has been identified as Prince Henry Benedict Clement Stuart (Italian, 1725-1807), Cardinal Duke of York, who spent his life in the Papal States and had a long career in the Church. In his youth, Henry's father made him Duke of York (in the Jacobite Peerage), and it was by this title that he was best known.

A Parke-Bernet label ("Sale 780, Lot # 1991") can be seen on verso of painting. An older label, without legible markings, is also present on verso. A handwritten, largely illegible inscription at top of frame reads, "H. Higgins 15 91 3 [?]".

Pompeo Batoni (Italian, 1708-1787) was an Italian painter and draughtsman who was well noted for his portraits of the British nobility. Batoni's father was an accomplished goldsmith. In the 18th century, Pompeo Batoni was among the most celebrated Roman painters of his day, and one of the most famous in Europe. For nearly half a century, Batoni painted portraits of world travellers who stopped in Rome as part of the customary "grand tour" of Europe. He was also an exceptional painter of religious, mythological, and historical subjects.

PROVENANCE:
Private Collection from Upstate New York

DIMENSIONS:
32" x 25.5".


Our April 4th auction includes consignments from both the United States and Europe and is our finest offering of Modern Art to date.

PLEASE NOTE: Lots that do not carry established documented provenance nor any past auction record are described in this catalog as "in the style of". Authentication has not been established nor is it implied. Definition of "in the style of" is as follows:

"In the style of" [Artist Name] : The work may be ascribed to the artist on the basis of style, but there may be some question as to actual authorship.

Overall good condition for its age. Canvas is solid with no tears or holes. Evidence remains where the pieces was removed from an oval-shaped frame visible in all corners. Please view photos for an accurate description.