Purchased by the father of the present owner from Gooden & Fox, Lond𝓀o𝕴n, in 1947.

The canvas has an old relining and is mounted on an old stretcher. The paint surface is in excellent condition, retaining much of the original impasto on both figure and architecture. Inspecture under ultra-violet light reveals a few discoloured retouchings fluorescing in the sky upper centre, and a 10cm. band above the arch, but the painting seems otherwise to be intact. There is only very minor retouching in the lower right foreground. Overall the painting is in excellent condition and will clean beautifully. The painted carved wood frame, with pediment, is in good condition with only minor surface knocks.
"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."

A studio variant of an original by Giovanni Paolo Panini, last recorded in the collection of the Banca Sannitica in Naples (see F. Arisi, Gian Paolo Panini e i fasti della Roma del '700, Rome 1986, p.323, no. 184, reproduced). A second studio variant was sold in London, Christie's,𓃲 2 December 1977, lot 39.