Catalogue d’une belle Collection de Tableaux, Dessins, Estampes, Sculptures en Terre cuite & en Bronze, Porcelaines, & autres objets de curiosité, provenant du Cabinet de…La vente se fera Lundi 16 Mars 1778 & jours suivans…Par F.C. Joullain, fils.
99 pp. 8vo, attractive antique calf-backed paste-paper boards, spine gilt, red morocco lettering-piece on spine. Paris: Joullain, 1778.
The uncommon sale catalogue, fully priced throughout and with buyers’ names, of a noteworthy collection devoted primarily to Italian art and sculpture. Bourlat de Montredon (d. 1777), was an influential amateur and collector who resided in Constantinople for forty years.
The catalogue thoroughly describes 695 lots, many of which are composed of numerous items. Lots 579-671 are Bourlat de Montredon’s impressive group of books of prints, mostly focused on the architecture and decorative arts of Italy, including a number of works by Piranesi. The descriptions offer occasional notes on provenance. As shown by the annotations in the margins, important figures in 18th-century art collecting, such as Joullain, Basan, Dubois, Alibert, Yver, Lélu, Moreau, Godefroy, etc., were active at this sale.
Very good copy, fully priced with buyers’ names. Marginal burn hole through first few leaves, not affecting text. Some pages shaved but barely touching the manuscript notes. Lacking the very rare schedule of sale.
❧ Cicognara 4471. Lugt 2809.
Price: $2,250.00
Item ID: 6443
