Neapolitan School, circa 1700

The canvas has an old relining which is still reasonably sound. The painting itself is now dirty and the varnish layer very discoloured. There is an old 5 cm tear beside the spear shaft centre right. The paint surface is now in poor condition,having evidently suffered badly from abrasion in the past, especially to the lower half of the picture and in the background. The thick varnish impedes inspection under ultra violet light, but old repairs are clearly visible to the hair and neck of St. Michael, to a string of damages around the hem of his tunic and the bottom of his cloak, and to assorted losses and damages across the foreground, the largest of which is an old 15 cm horizontal tear to his foot lower centre and a 25 cm vertical tear to the right of this. This lot is offered with a modern gilt wood frame in fair condition, some minor damages.
"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."