English School, early 17th Century

The catalogue illustration is representative. The picture is painted on a flat stable three piece panel. The paint surface is in a fair country house condition. There is extensive surface dirt and a thick discoloured varnish overall and the picture could benefit from a clean. There is also what appears to be minor localised fire damage in the background above her head however structurally the picture is in good overall condition. Examination under ultraviolet confirms the presence of the mottled varnish and reveals several campaigns of retouching, the most recent to the aforementioned fire damage and the top edges of the panel joins and there is recent strengthening to the arms as well as some minor infilling to old craquelure in the background upper right. There is an older campaign of minor retouching in the fleshtones of the face however further inspection is impeded by the varnish. Overall though there has been little intervention and the painting remains in good condition beneath the dirt etc. Offered in an elaborate George II carved giltwood frame surmounted by the arms of Scotlnad. In good overall 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."