Circle of Francesco Solimena

The canvas has been relined. The paint surface is secure and under a thick, dirty and somewhat discoloured varnish. Discoloured old retouchings are visible to the naked eye. There is a restored vertical tear centre left of approximately 15 cm and a small restored damage lower left. Inspection under UV light reveals a restored hole lower centre and more recent retouchings but the thick varnish masks the older retouchings. Offered in a plain gold painted wooden frame.
"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."

The painting repeats a composition by Solimena which was sold in London, Sotheby's, 23 April 1998, lot 212 (where it was described as an allegory of Autumn).  The painting's elongated format would suggest that it was once an overdoor (sovrapporta) and it has been argued that it probably formed part of a set representing the Four Seasons.  Prof. Nicola Spinosa had suggested a date of execution in the 1710s for Solimena's original.