Maltese School, 18th Century

Thinly relined. under a slightly dirty and uneven varnish. overall the paint surface has been well retained and there are no obvious losses. there is good retention of detail in ship and rigging. old discolored repairs can be seen with naked eye in water at right side, in sky upper left and along bottom. ultraviolet light reveals retouching to areas mentioned above and also scattered here and there throughout. the retouches in water at right side appear to be addressing repaired tears. In a plain gilt wood frame with nicks.
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.

The present painting depicts the galley flagship of Emmanuel de Rohan de Polduc, Grandmaster of the Knights of Malta from 1775-1797.