Roman School, early 18th Century

The painting is less red, cooler and less contrasted in tone than it appears in the catalogue illustration. The canvas has a stiff relining and the paint surface has been flattened as a result. There is a vertical join in the canvas, along which there are retouchings, running through the putto on the left and St. Teresa's right wrist. Numerous repaired damages and holes are visible to the naked eye (where retouchings have discoloured) and some of these occur: on the tabletop lower left; on St. Teresa's hands and the open book before her; on and around the join on the figure of the putto extending as far as his right hand and his left elbow, as well as an area between the crucifix and the putto; various repairs on St. Teresa herself (3 by 1cm. on her cheek, 2 by 3cm. on her neck, a 10cm. line from her chin down her shoulder) and further ones on her drapery lower centre; various smaller damages and tears on and around the putti heads upper centre; on the arm, hand and green drapery of God upper right; further restoration in the background areas upper left, upper right and lower right; another line of restoration running parallel to the right edge; a T-shaped repair running from God's left hand down to the putto's left foot as well as along his groin; and much of the area lower right, the background and red drapery included, has been reworked. Despite these and other repairs, the general appearance of the painting is that it is in fair condition: where there are no damages, the paint does not show signs of wear. Although the painting is in need of attention it will benefit from restoration. The modern gold-painted wood frame is unsuitable but 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."