Florentine School, first quarter of the 17th Century

Private collection, Italy.

The painting is far less red in tone than it appears in the catalogue illustration. The canvas has an old relining. The paint surface is dirty and the varnish discoloured. There appear to have been at least two, if not three, restoration campaigns. Inspection under ultra-violet shows some repaired tears on St. Francis' hood, right shoulder and right arm (the last of these running from the tips of the fingers on his left hand to the left side of the picture). Various retouchings are visible along these - and other smaller - repairs, and numerous strengthenings occur throughout Francis' costume as well as in the background; too many to recount and refer to specifically. The flesh tones seem to have survived somewhat better and it appears that there are only a few localised retouchings in Francis' head, and these are principally concentrated in the shadows. Although the painting has suffered somewhat in the past it is very difficult to assess in its current state and it would certainly benefit from cleaning. The early 17th-century Florentine carved and gilt wood frame is not original with the picture - inner fillets have been inserted along all four sides - but it is certainly old and rather fine. Apart from minor superficial knocks and some old worm holes, the frame is in good condition (see catalogue illustration).
"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."