Studio of Giovanni Francesco Barbieri, called Il Guercino

The canvas has an old, loose relining. There are some scattered old damages close to the margins, the largest of which is lower right approx 10 by 3 cm, as visible in the catalogue illustration. The paint surface is otherwise secure under a dirty old varnish. There are some signs of wear and an area of abrasion in the dark area on the left hand side but the paint surface is otherwise in fine condition with relatively little later intervention. Inspection under UV light reveals old retouching work to the aforementioned damaged and abraded areas. Offered in a carved gilt wood frame in good condition with some minor chips.
"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."

A studio copy after Guercino's original sold New York, Sotheby's, 29 January 2009, lot 29 (see M. Pulini in Gercino, poesia e sentimento nella pittura del '600, Milan 2003, pp. 199-9, no. 49, reproduced in reverse).