Ecole de Fontainebleau vers 1580

Under the naked-eye: The painting is made with two oak wood planks reinforced by a “butterfly” attach. It is overall in relatively satisfactory state of conservation. Under the UV light: The painting is under a green varnish which has been cleaned on the face. We notice some restorations in the forehead, between the eye and the ear on the right and on the left arm, the shoulders and on the light lace fabric.
"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."

Ce type d'image est typique de l'école de Fontainebleau et était très en vogue à la fin du XVIe siècle. La production était généralement nordique et parfois flamande. Le visage, un stéréotype, est souvent le même, seuls les vêtements changent. L'image emblématique de cette époque qui illustre parfaitement ce groupe de portraits est une oeuvre anonyme, Sabina Poppea conservée aujourd'hui au musée d'Art et d'Histoire de Genève.