Lorenzo de Caro

The following condition report has been provided by Simon Parkes of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc. 502 East 74th St. New York, NY 212-734-3920, simonparkes@msn.com , an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. This painting has been lined. A vertical tear running through the waist of the male figure and what appears to be another diagonal tear in the upper right have been stabilized by the lining. The paint layer is quite abraded and although further restoration would reduce this, the picture could also be hung as is.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Among the many followers and pupils of Solimena working in Naples in the mid-18th Century, Lorenzo de Caro is perhaps the most idiosyncratic and individual.  This Saint John the Baptist is a finsihed oil sketch on paper, suggesting that it might have been a presentation bozzetto by de Caro for a larger painting.  It is painted in his usual flickering style, which he adapted from the late work of his master, Francesco Solimena, as are the truncated figures of the Baptist's audience in the lower left and right corners.