Viancini collection, Venice;
Anonymous sale, Venice, Semenzato, 12 December 1993, lot 29;
With Francesca Antonacci, Rome;
From whom acquired in 2005.

Belluno, Palazzo Crepadona; Rome, Museo di Roma, Caffi. Luci del Mediterraneo, 1 October 2005 – 2 May 2006, no. 78.

A. Scarpa (ed.), Caffi. Luci del Mediterraneo, exhibition catalogue, Milan 2005, p. 280, cat. no. 78, reproduced in color p. 174.

The canvas is relined. This picture is in healthy condition with a few scattered retouches visible under ultraviolet. These are well applied and isolated primarily to the sky, notably in the upper left quadrant along with a few small areas around the top edge, the latter probably due to frame abrasion. A possible old puncture wound is visible in the center sky in between the two columns at left. The picture could probably be hung in its current state as these smaller restorations are well applied. The painting is in a gilt carved wood frame.
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.

Two other versions of the composition are known, one in the Museo di Roma, and a second in the Galleria di Ca' Pesaro, Venice.¹ A night-time setting with all the potential artifice which fireworks provide was a perfect vehicle for Caffi to explore his interest in the effects of light on the Colosseum.

1. See Scarpa, under Literature.