European School, 18th-19th Century

The canvas is unlined. The paint surface is in good condition with a fine craquelure running throughout. There is some discolouration to the green drapery left but otherwise the colours and details of the work are well-preserved. No major damages to the work are apparent. Inspection under UV light reveals a few scattered spot retouchings over the fairly reflective layer of varnish and some larger areas of retouching to the right hand man's left shoulder and right foot and the left hand man sitting in the foreground's seat and thigh. Offered in an ornate gilt wood frame in good condition.
"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 painting depicts the trial of Phryné, an Ancient Greek courtesan from the 4th Century BC, whose bare breasts, and the divinity their beauty represented, so moved her judges, she was acquitted of profaning the Eleusian mysteries. Some accounts suggest that her clothing was torn from her by the orator Hypereides, acting in her defence, but others suggest that she removed her clothing herself.