Bolognese School, last quarter of the 17th century

The catalogue illustration is quite representative of the painting though it is slightly too contrasted in tone. The canvas has been recently relined and the painting recently cleaned and restored. The relining has flattened the impasto of the paint surface somewhat, but the brushwork does retain much of its vibrancy and freshness. The background areas appear a little thin and retouchings are visible here under ultra-violet light. Further restoration consists of localised strengthenings to Moses' hair in shadow; his mouth and moustache; his eyes, eyebrows and the part of his nose in shadow. There is a repaired damage in his beard, just above his wrist, as well as a vertical repaired damage on the wrist itself. Moses' fingers and the tablet lower left have been retouched and the deep folds of his drapery strengthened. All restoration has been sensitively carried out and is only visible under ultra-violet light. This lot is offered in a Bolognese-style gilt wood frame, in good condition, and the painting makes a very strong overall impression.
"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 possible attribution to Giuseppe Maria Crespi (Bologna 1665-1747) has been suggested.