Attributed to Gabriele Castagnola (Italian, 1828-1883) Filipo Lippi and the Sister Buti

Description:

Attributed to Gabriele Castagnola (Italian, 1828-1883)

Filipo Lippi and the Sister Buti
Abraded signature or inscription l.r., identified on a handwritten
label affixed to the stretcher.
Oil on canvas, 27 x 20 1/2 in. (69.5 x 52.5 cm),in a carved and gilded frame.
Condition: Craquelure, surface grime.

N.B. Sister Buti is often identified as Lucrezia Buti, described as the artist's muse. There is a legend, reported by Vasari but not substantiated elsewhere, that Fra Filippo was preparing frescoes for the cathedral in Prato, when he was asked to paint a picture for the convent chapel of S. Margherita of Prato. There he met the beautiful Florentine, Lucrezia, who at the time was either a novice of the Order or a young lady placed under the nuns' guardianship. Lippi asked that Lucrezia might be permitted to sit for the figure of the Madonna (or perhaps S. Margherita). A seduction ensued, the artist absconded with the young woman, and Vasari further claims that Lucrezia became the mother of Filippino Lippi.
Estimate $1,500-2,000

A a red wax seal from "R. Galleria/Antica e Moderna/Firenze" on the reverse. Inscribed "Via Boccacia.../Francesco Scalini" in pencil on the stretcher.


The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

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