Buchinger, Matthias | A two-sheet Buchinger family tree with cut-outs

Buchinger, Matthias
Fine autograph calligraphic family tree and coat of arms of Herbert and Arabella Aubrey signed ("Matthew Buchinger")

Manuscript on two sheets of overlaid paper (overall 265 x 200 mm), the upper sheet with thirteen cutouts to reveal writing on second sheet, Hereford, 25 September 1734; browned and stained, some marginal and other chipping, costing a bit of the drawing at top margin in the foliage of the tree, a few wormholes in lower margin, laid down on mat board.

This is one of the uncommon family trees drawn by Buchinger that demonstrate his skill not only with the pen, but with the knife as well.

The family tree, which incorporates the Aubrey arms, is captioned within the ruled border: "Herbert Aubrey of Clayhonger, Married Arabella; the Daughter of ye Rt. Honble. The Lord Viscount Harcourt; May ye 29 1716." The top sheet has a cutout window to reveal the preceding caption, which is inscribed on the second sheet; the top sheet also has a dozen cutouts to accommodate the records of the births of the couple's children, also written on the second sheet (three of the "fruit" cut-outs are unaccomplished). Hanging from a loop on a lower limb is a trompe l'oeil locket with the Aubrey and Harcourt arms impaled.

The manuscript is signed, dated, and localized by Buchinger in his usual formula on the upper sheet below the ruled border: "Hereford, September the 25, 1743. This Coat of Arms & This tree was Drawn Written by Matthew Buchinger born Without Hands or Feet, in Germany, June the 3d. 1674."

REFERENCE:
Exemplars, p. 59

Condition Report:
Condition as described in catalogue entry.

In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.