Neapolitan School, 17th Century

The painting is slightly less contrasted than it appears in the catalogue illustration but the colours are quite representative. The canvas has been recently relined and the painting quite recently cleaned and restored. The relining has pressed the paint surface and the squaring of the canvas weave is now visible throughout the painting (particularly in the lighter tones). The painting appears to have been quite carefully restored and inspection under ultra-violet light reveals retouchings throughout and a number of repaired damages. Much of the background upper left and upper centre has been reworked, and there is a repaired patch above Pallas' head upper centre. Retouchings are apparent on the helmet and on the face of Pallas, particularly in the shadow areas; a repaired damage on her neck (6 by 4cm.); and a larger vertical repaired tear running down her chest (20cm. in height and up to 3cm. wide in places). Other lesser repairs are visible throughout, more noticable is a patch on her left thigh (4 by 3cm.) and further retouchings on and around her left knee, as well as retouchings on her right shin and a 10cm. repaired tear nearby. Localised strengthenings are visible on parts of the foliage centre left and lower left, and an area with retouchings on the lion's head. Further restoration is visible along the extreme lower edge, possibly where a frame rubbed the paint surface. The painting has suffered in the past but on the whole the restoration has been quite sensitively carried out and the painting can be hung as it is. This lot is offered unframed.
"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."