Roman School, 17th Century

The following condition report has been provided by Simon Parkes of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc. 502 East 74th St. New York, NY 212-734-3920, simonparkes@msn.com , an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. This interesting painting is not lined but the tacking edges have been reinforced. However, the paint layer is still quite uneven and there are some losses in the book in the lower right, so lining this picture is recommended. There do not appear to be any restorations and although the picture has been secured to the stretcher, no attempts have been made to clean the picture. One is curious as to whether the picture was ever cleaned; sometimes the fact that a picture is hard to clean discourages a consignor from embarking on this endeavor. However, there seems to be no indication that any tests have been made and although there is a significant and tenacious layer of dirt to the surface, the chances of it being easily cleaned are very high. The canvas should be lined, the paint layer should be properly cleaned and retouches will be required only in the lower right. The remainder of the picture is in incredibly robust and healthy 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 present  works shows strong Caravaggesque influences and more particularly from the style of Orazio Gentileschi.