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1 of 253523 objects
African civet c. 1630
Watercolour and bodycolour over black chalk | 34.4 x 47.6 cm (sheet of paper) | RCIN 921145
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This civet had been sent from Africa as a gift to Cassiano’s patron, Cardinal Francesco Barberini, who kept it in his menagerie of exotic animals in Rome. The animal has been prized throughout history for the musky excretion (with which it marks its territory) from its anal glands, prominently shown here. Another civet was dissected for Cassiano in his palazzo.
Provenance
Commissioned by Cassiano dal Pozzo; from whose heirs purchased by Pope Clement XI, 1703; his nephew, Cardinal Alessandro Albani, 1721; from whom bought by George III, 1762 and thence by descent to King George V (dispersed from Royal Library between the two World Wars); London art market (most via dealer Jacob Mendelson); by Sir Rex Nan Kivell (partner of the Redfern Galleries on Cork Street); presented to Queen Elizabeth II in 1976-77
As part of ongoing provenance research, this work has been identified as having uncertain or incomplete provenance for the years 1933–45. Royal Collection Trust welcomes information and assistance in the investigation and clarification of the provenance of all works during that era. -
Creator(s)
(artist)Acquirer(s)
Commissioner(s)
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Medium and techniques
Watercolour and bodycolour over black chalk
Measurements
34.4 x 47.6 cm (sheet of paper)
Other number(s)
RL 21145
