Antonio Bellucci

The catalogue illustration is slightly too contrasted but the colours are fairly representative of the actual painting. The canvas has an old relining which has not flattened the picture surface, though the painting may require relining. There are two vertical additions to the canvas along the left and right edges, probably added to enlarge the picture in order to fit its current frame: the same was done to the painting that hung as its pendant until recent (lot 196 in this sale). Both pictures appear not to have been cleaned or restored for some time. The paint was solidly applied and is not abraded. There are a number of localised retouchings and damages which are visible to the naked eye, and these are also largely visible in the catalogue illustration. A number of retouched marks (or creases?) appear throughout Samson's back and upper arm, as well as in the sky upper right. Further repaired damages occur: on Delilah's neck; above her exposed breast; on her forearm above her bracelet; on Samson's shoulder and upper back. A vertical line of retouching is visible running throughout Samson's back and this may be where there was an old stretcher mark. Apart from these localised damages, the paint surface has survived well for the most part and areas such as Delilah's head and hair, or her hands and right sleeve, should clean extremely well. The magnificent French Regency frame, carved in oak with its original gilding, is in very good condition (though with superficial knocks and damages, as is to be expected).
"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."

We are grateful to Dott. Fabrizio Magani for endorsing the attribution on the basis of an image.