Follower of Corneille de Lyon

"The following condition report has been provided by Henry Gentle, an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. The oak support is in good condition. The paint layer is stable. There are minor restored paint losses to the background, left and right behind the sitter, and to the face. The black paint of the dress has been thinned and reinforced where the wood grain has become dominant. There are also areas where restoration appears unnecessary e.g. the shoulders. The removal of the varnish would improve overall tonality. Generally in a good condition. Offered in a gilt wood frame, good condition."
"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 sitter has traditionally been identified as Mary Stuart (1542-1587) , Queen consort of François II of France from July 1559 to December 1560.