Studio of Michele Tosini, called Michele di Ridolfo del Ghirlandaio Florence 1503 - 1577

R.P. Nicols, Esq, Brighton by 1875;
His sale, London, Christie's, 30 April 1875, lot 73 as 'Salviati' for £34.13 to Shield;
With Robertson & Bruce Ltd, Dundee, by 1939;
Anonymous sale ("The following have been removed from a Mansion House in Fife"), London, Christie's, 28 April 1939, lot 13, as 'Salviati', to Berendt.

The painting is redder and warmer than the catalogue illustration suggests. The thick (pine?) panel has a slight convex bow but is otherwise well preserved. Old inactive worm holes are visible on the reverse of the panel. Overall the paint surface is well preserved and is under a discoloured uneven varnish. There is a hairline vertical crack in the panel running along the centre. Three small knots (two in Clepoatra's chest and one in her clothing centre left) have been restored. Inspection under UV light reveals some old strengthenings to Cleopatra's hairline, eyebrows, mouth, neck and to the snake. Further old discoloured retouchings can be found in the darker patch of the neck and clothing. There is some light frame abrasion along the edges. Offered in a wood and plaster cassetta-style frame in reasonable condition with some losses.
"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."

This studio work derives from an autograph painting sold in these Rooms on 16 April 1980, lot 93, which depicts the Magdalene rather than Cleopatra. The work also differs in the background, in the cloak, and in the bare breast which is about to be bitten by the asp. Another work depicting Cleopatra, probably also by Ridolfo's workshop, was sold in these Rooms on 19 October 1966, lot 59 (as M. di Ridolfi).