Sir Peter Lely

Anonymous sale, London, Christie's, 7 July 2007, lot 119, to the present owner.

The canvas has been recently relined, cleaned and restored. The paint surface is stable. The varnish is clear and even, the impasto to be well preserved. Visible to the naked eye is some subtle restoration work in the right of the lady's face above her brow, on her nose and below her eye. This work is the filling in of some old flaking. Inspection under ultra violet light reveals other retouchings including an area of localised restoration in her décolletage but otherwise the picture is in good condition and would require no further attention. The painting is offered in an English style silver gilt carved wood frame in good condition.
"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."