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1 of 253523 objects
School of Guercino (Cento 1591-Bologna 1666)
Bathsheba at the Bath with two attendants c. 1640
Pen and wash | 24.9 x 38.8 cm (sheet of paper) | RCIN 902673
School of Guercino (Cento 1591-Bologna 1666)
Bathsheba at the Bath with two attendants c. 1640
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A composition study for a painting of David and Bathsheba (lost) in which Bathsheba is seated, nearly full length and almost nude, with her left hand stretched out towards a jet of water filling a bath in which her left leg is placed. On the right are two female attendants, one of whom holds a large vase that stands on the edge of the bath. The figure of David is partly visible on a balcony, top left.
The only painting by Guercino of this subject recorded in the Libro dei Conti is that for which Conte Astorre Hercolani paid 375 scudi on 23 August 1640.
The state of the drawing is such that it would be unwise to advance a firm opinion as to its authorship, but it is likely a School drawing, later reinforced, which may to some extent reflect an autograph composition study for the Hercolani commission. For another drawing conceivably representing Bathsheba, see RCIN 902630.Provenance
Bequeathed by the artist to Benedetto and Cesare Gennari; from whose descendants purchased by Richard Dalton for George III, c.1758-63; first recorded in a Royal Collection inventory of c.1800-1820 (Inv.A, p.64: 'Bethsheba [sic] a Bathing')
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Creator(s)
Acquirer(s)
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Medium and techniques
Pen and wash
Measurements
24.9 x 38.8 cm (sheet of paper)
Object type(s)
Other number(s)
RL 2673
