Juan Antonio de Frias y Escalante

Convent of La Merced, Madrid;
Dr. John Argy, Grosse Point Park, Michigan;
Anonymous sale, New York, Sotheby's, 14 October 1998, lot 203, whence acquired by the present owners.

The canvas has a recent relining. The paint surface has been cleaned and although the skin tones have lost their upper glazes, the colours remain strong. Inspection under ultraviolet light shows a repaired vertical tear from the centre of the upper margin measuring 11 cm., and a smaller tear measuring 4 cm. by the angel's forearm. There is much scattered retouching in the upper right quartile of the picture, and all long the right margin, and in a small area in the lower right corner, except for around the signature. Retouching to a damage on the saint's left knee, and along the crown of his head. Otherwise just scattered infilling of craquelure throughout. This lot is offered in an ornate and heavy carved gilt wood frame, with black painted flat panels, with some fine cracks, but structurally sound.
"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."