Circle of Sir Anthony van Dyck

STRUCTURE The canvas has been lined. PAINT SURFACE The painting appears to be in good condition, although it is slighlty thin in places, particularly in the hair and around the neck. There are two areas of visible restoration, to the centre right and the centre left, where there is retouching to two small old punctures in the canvas. These are very minor and only in the background of the picture. ULTRAVIOLET Examination under ultraviolet light reveals old strengthening in the background of the painting, as well as some more recent minor retouching in the hair and armour. There is also some very minor retouching to old cracks along the lower edge, along the upper side of the stretcher bar. FRAME Held in an elabiorately carved
"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."

This portrait is a version of the head of Charles I taken from the full length portrait of the King in armour (State Hermitage Museum, St Petersburg).