Circle of Cristofano Allori

Relined and slightly pressed as a result. Overall picture presents a strong image with nice passages where impasto has remained intact. Some of the darks have sunken, for example, in Judith's hair. Paint surface is slightly uneven, especially in the dark background above and to the right of Judith's head. Painting under a thick dirty old varnish, which has yellowed in some places, most obviously in Judith's sash and in the veil of her maidservant. Small loss in red drapery of Judith, as is visible in the catalogue illustration. U.v. reveals that the majority of upper background starting at right above Judith's head to maid servant has been overpainted. (This area corresponds to the aforementioned areas of uneven paint surface.) Holofernes' hair fluoresces unevenly. It is unclear whether this is due to a reworking of this area or if it is due to an uneven application of varnish. There are other small areas of retouching here and there. There may be other retouches which the varnish renders imperceptible under u.v. Painting would benefit from a light clean and attention from a professional restorer. Unframed.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.