Ferdinand Voet

Private collection, East Sussex.

The painting is warmer and redder in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests. The canvas has a mid-20th century relining which is still effective and has not flattened the painting surface, on which the impasto is still well preserved. To the naked eye the condition appears good, other than some minor scuffs in the background and a small area of restoration centre left. Inspection under UV light confirms the good condition. The aforementioned areas of minor restoration flouresce, as well as some minor areas of retouching in the background. Some very minor retouchings which are not obtrusive have been applied to the face and chest. Offered in a later wood and plaster moulded frame, painted gold, with minor knocks but structurally sound.
"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."

The attribution is due to Professor Francesco Petrucci, who also identified the sitter. Anna Maria Carpegna Naro was the granddaughter of Robert Dudley, Duke of Northumberland and Leicester, who had fled Britain to escape Catholic persecution. Another portrait of her by Voet hangs in Palazzo Chigi and was inscribed with her name on the reverse of the original canvas.¹

1. See F. Petrucci, Ferdinant Voet, Rome 2005, p. 212, cat. no. 157.a, reproduced.