An Italian portrait of a nobleman, end of the 18th

Oil on canvas. Three-quarter length portrait of a nobleman in a lavishly embroidered waistcoat and justaucorps with breast star and sash of the Order of Saint Januarius. Holding a stylus in one hand, standing alongside a table with a letter to Don Francesco Caetani, next to a set square and a slate. Architectural scenery indicated in the background. The surface with some craquelure and two creases. In a slightly knocked, gilt plaster frame with lavish floral embellishment. Size of the picture 97 x 134 cm, framed 131 x 168 cm. The Order of Saint Januarius was a Sicilian knightly order that was instituted by Charles IV of Naples and Sicily (the later Charles III of Spain) on 6 July 1738 to commemorate his marriage to Princess Maria Amalia of Saxony. It was only awarded to Catholics who were able to demonstrate their noble ancestry over at least four preceding generations. Ponceau red ribbon, the order is worn with a sash over the right shoulder to the left hip and with the breast star.
Condition: II - III