The contents of two Italian properties where royalty, politicians and the Pope were entertained go on sale at Bonhams of London, on September 24. The late Count and Countess Martignone, a doctor and a businesswoman, were a noble family from Como whose history can be traced back to the 13th century, and well-known as art collectors. They also gave legendary parties at their villa on the Italian Riviera as well as at their apartment in Milan.
The contents of these two properties include a wonderful selection of Italian and French furniture, European works of art and sculpture, old master paintings, English and Continental silver, ceramics, Asian works of art and garden statuary.
The 513 lots include an Aubusson tapestry of Venus and Adonis (estimated at £10,000–£15,000), a 1694 oil painting of fruit and putti by Franz Werner von Tamm (£25,000–£35,000) and a set of six 18th-century, Lombardy gilt armchairs (£6,000–£10,000). Viewing at 101, New Bond Street, W1, is until August 29 and on September 1–5 (www.bonhams.com).
* This article was first published in Country Life on August 27 2014
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