Studio of Juan de Valdés Leal Seville 1622 - 1690

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 large and impressive portrait has not been restored for a long time. The canvas has a very old glue lining. The paint layer is slightly unstable around the edges, particularly the right side where there are a few small structural damages in the lower portion. There is an arch-shaped tear in the sleeve in the center of the picture which is most noticeable. This runs approximately six inches in length. The paint layer is very dirty yet not abraded and the varnish is quite dull. There are numerous small losses which have been loosely restored in the background in the left side. Some losses are also evident in the lower portions of the dress and in other areas, in the center of the right side particularly. The figure itself is in very good state. The painting could be freshly lined and fully cleaned. Restorations will also be required to address the large structural damage and the smaller losses. In general however, the condition of the figure, the fabric and still life on the right side is very good.
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.

The present painting repeats, on a slightly wider canvas, Valdes Leal's depiction of the Magdalene, now in the collection of S.A.R. e I. D^a Esperanza de Borbón. (See E. Valdivieso, Juan de Valdes Leal, Seville 1988, pp. 141 and 248, cat. no. 101, reproduced p. 141 (in color) and p. 248 (image reversed).