Attributed to Simon Pietersz. Verelst

STRUCTURE The canvas has been lined. PAINT SURFACE The painting appears to be in good condition, and there are no apparent damages or significant losses of paint. There has been some abrasion and the paint is quite thin in places, particularly in the upper left. There are two very small visible retouchings in the background to the right of the sitter's head, and one very small visible retouching in the background, centre right. On very close inspection there is also some minor retouching in the sitter's throat and costume. ULTRAVIOLET Examination under ultraviolet light reveals, in addition to those mentioned above, some minor retouchings in the sitter's costume, and in the lower left. There is also some strengthening to the paint in the background on the left of the sitter, and to the drapery. FRAME Held in a gilded plaster and wood frame. To speak to a specialist about this lot please contact Julian Gascoigne on +44 (0)207 293 5482, or at julian.gascoigne@sothebys.com.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The label on the back of this painting suggests that this painting is a portrait of Charles Beauclerk, 1st Duke of St Albans, the illegitimate son of Charles II by his mistress, the actress Nell Gwyn.