Giovanni Battista Discepoli detto Zoppo da Lugano

The canvas has been relined. The paint surface has suffered some minor scattered losses and scratches but is now secured by a thick dirty varnish. There are scattered retouchings and small restorations and these are visible under UV light. However, the varnish prevents thorough examination under UV. There is a canvas seam running horizontally across the canvas. Offered in a carved gilt wood frame which is in fair condition and structurally sound.
"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."

La tela è da collocare nella fase giovanile dell'attività dell'artista, intorno agli anni Trenta del Seicento, come conferma il confronto con la Presentazione al Tempio della Galleria Sabauda di Torino. Con il dipinto torinese il nostro condivide infatti l'intenso colorismo, animato in particolare dal rosso smagliante delle vesti, e le suggestioni dall'opera del Morazzone, rintracciabili tra l'altro nello schema compositivo basato su diverse diagonali che hanno il loro punto di incontro al centro della scena, qui coincidente con il volto del soldato rivolto verso lo spettatore.

Si ringrazia il professor Francesco Frangi per aver confermato l'attribuzione del dipinto a Giovan Battista Discepoli.