Auction introduction: Sotheby’s is proud to present for sale the contents of “A Mayfair pied-à-terre”, an interior which encapsulates the inimitable eye of the award-winning designer Alidad. This residence, in the heart of London, showcased part of the collection of a European gentleman of exquisite taste and served as an inspiring and comfortable haven for him to return to after his international travels. European Paintings, Drawings and Sculpture in the Italianate manner are presented together with elegant furniture and decorative works of art, which underline both the collector’s heritage and the inspiring talent of Alidad. Some of the highlights are a painting by the Genoese Valerio Castello, a portrait of Empress Josephine by Firmin Massot, a bronze torso by the contemporary artist Igor Mitoraj, a pair of George III giltwood carvings from St. Giles House, Dorset and a Flemish mythological tapestry from the Story of Diana.