Dutch School, 17th Century

The canvas has been relined, and the painting is offered unframed. The paint surface has been somewhat flattened by the relining, but is otherwise secure and in good condition, under an old, slightly uneven varnish. There is a fine craquelure running throughout the painting, and a very small vertical scratch or fine line of paint loss extending vertically 2cm. in from the left hand side of the upper margin, but no other damages to the painting are discernible. Inspection under UV is impeded by the reflective varnish but does reveal extensive retouchings to the dark background. The sitter's black dress and the black bows in her hair have also been fairly extensively retouched, with the craquelure being filled in in parts, but only a few scattered spot retouchings to the rest of the sitter and her accessories fluoresce.
"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."