Simone Cantarini, called il Pesarese

The canvas has recently been cleaned and restored and has a firm relining that has somewhat pressed the paint surface, which is slightly worn. There are a fair number of scattered lacunae across the paint surface, the greatest concentrations being a vertical restored tear measuring 22 cm in the saint's side, an area of damage on the side of his face, and in his robe, but the hair, skull and much of the flesh remain well-preserved.
"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."

This recently rediscovered Saint Jerome is a characteristic example of Simone Cantarini's style. A similar work, in which the saint faces to the left, is in the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche, Urbino.¹ In both paintings Cantarini pays close attention to the red folds of the saint's garment and endows the torsos with the same musculature. The hair and beard are described in similar wavy tufts that are typical of the artist.

1. See M. Manigotti, Simone Cantarini, il Pesarese, Milan 1975, p. 148, reproduced p. 149, fig. 87.