Sotheby’s, the renowned auction house, has announced that the painting “Saint Sebastian Tended By Two Angels” by Flemish master Sir Peter Paul Rubens will be going to auction in London in early July. With a high estimate of $7.7 million, this auction marks the first time the painting has been presented for sale since its attribution to Rubens was confirmed
The Journey of a Misattributed Masterpiece:
In 2008, the painting was mistakenly attributed to French artist Laurent de la Hyre and sold for a mere $40,000 at Ivey-Selkirk, a St. Louis auction house, according to Artnet News. However, this sale brought significant attention to the artwork, leading scholars to reevaluate its origins. It was subsequently identified as a lost work by Rubens, elevating its status and importance in the art world.
Unveiling the Original: A Tale of Two Paintings:
For centuries, the painting was believed to be a copy of Rubens’ “Saint Sebastian Tended By Angels,” housed at the Galleria Corsini in Rome. However, a groundbreaking exhibition in Stuttgart, Germany, in 2021 showcased both paintings side-by-side. Scholars concluded that the once-misidentified painting was, in fact, the original work by Rubens, while the Corsini painting was a copy.
Recognizing Quality and Provenance:
Sotheby’s highlighted the expertise of art historian and Flemish art specialist Anna Orlando, who played a significant role in establishing the provenance of the artwork. In their description of the painting, the auction house quoted Orlando, stating, “The very useful direct comparison [between the two paintings] on the occasion of the exhibition in Stuttgart in 2021 would seem to reveal the higher quality of the work in private hands.” Further analysis using x-rays confirmed the scholars’ assessment.
The Enigmatic History of the Painting:
Scholars believe that the painting was originally commissioned by Ambrogio Spinola, a prominent Genoese nobleman and military commander in the late 1600s. The Spinola family, known as one of the primary dynasties of the Republic of Genoa, kept the painting within their lineage for an extended period. However, the artwork eventually passed to a Spinola heir who had no male successors, leading to its transmission through the female line of descent. Consequently, tracing the painting’s ownership becomes challenging during the 230-year gap in its history.
Rediscovery and Auction Appearance:
After resurfacing in Missouri in 1963, the painting made its first appearance at an auction in 2008. Now, it is set to captivate art enthusiasts once again as it returns to the auction scene at Sotheby’s in London.
Conclusion:
The upcoming auction of Rubens’ masterpiece, “Saint Sebastian Tended By Two Angels,” at Sotheby’s promises to be a significant event in the art world. With its corrected attribution and exceptional quality, the painting carries a rich history and captivating provenance. As collectors and enthusiasts await the auction in anticipation, the artwork’s estimated value of $7.7 million reflects the recognition and appreciation of Rubens’ artistic brilliance.
