Follower of Raphael

Oil on canvas, relined. The picture surface is somewhat flattened and the background somewhat thin. Evidence of 2 previous tears in the background at left; a tear at the top of the subject's head; and a tear in the background at right between the subject and the top of the chair. The varnish is somewhat unevenly applied and drips are visible to the bottom half of the canvas. Frame abrasion as well as scattered areas of pigment separation. Under UV light, the majority of the work is obscured by a thick green fluorescing varnish. The subjects hands and proper left arm have been cleaned of this varnish, as have the bell and papers at lower left and some of the subject's face. The previously mentioned tears fluoresce as well. In an ornate carved and painted frame.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

A variant on Raphael's Pope Leo X with Cardinals Giulio de’ Medici and Luigi de’ Rossi, painted circa 1517-18 and now in the Uffizi Gallery, Florence.