Neapolitan School, 17th Century

The painting is less red than the catalogue illustration suggests. The canvas has been relined, and retains its bounce, though this process has not overly flattened the paint surface. The paint surface is very dirty and under a discploured varnish. True reading of the condition of the paint surface is thus rendered difficult. Some craquelure is present throughout. Some very minor losses are present, for example lower right. Some of the darker areas are abraded and it appears as though the paint has become somewhat sunken. There is a crack centre left as well as some other small cracks. These flouresce under UV light as well as some other minor scattered areas. However, the thick varnish impedes satisfactory inspection. The painting would greatly benefit from a clean and new varnish.
"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."

An attribution to the young Cesare Fracanzano has been proposed.