Francesco Solimena

"The following condition report has been provided by Henry Gentle, an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. The original canvas is lined and the paint layer is stable and flat. All four sides have been enlarged by 1cm and raised stretcher marks are visible. There is a restored central horizontal tear and a restored horizontal split in from the left hand edge. Under ultra-violet light can be seen a scattering of restorations across the surface, particularly to Justice's robe, and to disguise pin-prick losses of paint elsewhere. The kneeling figure, left, is well preserved along with other areas of the composition. A moderate tonal improvement would be achieved with the removal of the varnish."
"This lot is offered for sale subject to Sotheby's Conditions of Business, which are available on request and printed in Sotheby's sale catalogues. The independent reports contained in this document are provided for prospective bidders' information only and without warranty by Sotheby's or the Seller."

The attribution to Francesco Solimena was proposed by Prof. Nicola Spinosa following first hand inspection of the painting. Prof. Spinosa believes this painting to be an early work by the artist, datable to circa 1685.