This talk will describe the production, collection and conservation history of a group of oil sketches executed on paper and canvas, painted in Bologna within the contexts of the Carracci school. All are now held in British collections. Technical examination of the works shed light on their materials and the methods of their production, as well as their functions within the 17th century studio. Traditions of 17th century display and ownership are contrasted with collection and conservation of these works by 18th century British Grand Tourists, illustrating shifting approaches over time and geographical location.
Alice Limb is currently an advanced graduate intern at the Hamilton Kerr Institute. Before joining the HKI, she worked at SRAL (Maastricht, Netherlands) and at Ruth Bubb Ltd. Alice’s research interests include old master paintings executed on unusual or composite supports, and the changes made to artworks over time due to shifting social and religious contexts. This talk is based on research undertaken for her graduate thesis at the Courtauld Institute.