Circle of Viviano Codazzi (Italian, 1603-1672) oil on canvas painting with a Mediterranean or Middle Eastern seaport populated with various figures outfitted in historiated dress, many in turbans. At lower right a bare-headed man kneels before a man in an elaborate mantle and headdress as he presents a small, unidentified item held between his fingers. On the ground before him lies a fish, with additional fish and a small boat with fishing net below. The kneeling figure may represent Saint Peter at Capernaum as he pays the Tribute Money or temple tax to the tax collector, with a shadowy King Herod shown seated in profile and accompanied by a Roman Soldier as he watches from lower left. With numbering to verso and to old label affixed to verso. Housed in an ebonized and giltwood frame. Canvas: 24 1/2 in. H x 29 1/4 in. W. Sight: 23 1/2 in. H x 28 1/2 in. W. Framed: 28 3/4 in. H x 33 1/2 in. W. 

Canvas with old lining and restoration including localized retouching especially to sky, largest area by building at center left, 1 1/2 inch x 1/2 inch, and to frame abrasions. See UV photography. 3/8 inch x 1/4 inch area of loss to upper left edge, likely associated with lining, and stretcher marks especially along upper edge. Repaired puncture to verso lining not visible en recto. With stable craquelure throughout, plus surface grime.

The collection of Dr. William and Susan Bernet, purchased in the 1980s in Alexandria, VA.