Mario Balassi

The following condition report has been provided by Simon Parkes of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc. 502 East 74th St. New York, NY 212-734-3920, simonparkes@msn.com , an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. This lovely painting has an old Italian glue lining. The paint layer is stable although slightly uneven. The varnish is very dull but the paint layer itself is in lovely condition. If the painting were to be cleaned and varnished, retouches would most likely be required in a few spots yet most likely only a little in the jaw line, on the left temple, around the edges and in a few spots in the background. Overall, the condition is extremely good.
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.

We are grateful to Francesca Baldassari for identifying this painting to be a work by Balassi, based on photographs.