Attributed to Mario Nuzzi, called Mario de' Fiori

Believed to have been in the collection of the family of the present owners for at least 35 years.

The canvas has an old and loose relining. Unusually thick and good quality impasto can be found throughout the flowers and still life of lemons. The background colours have sunk and thinned at the upper right and cetnre. The colours in a few of the peripheral flowers at upper left have also sunk. Otherwise the colours in the flowers remain strong. A 5 cm band of retouching can be seen running along the length of the left and upper margins. An area of retouching measuring approximately 15 by 16 cm is visible at the centre right of the background and a retouching measuring approximately 10 by 16 can be seen at the upper left of the background. Retouchings can also be seen in the background between the flowers. A 4 cm horizontal retouching can be seen in the lemon at the centre. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals a thick and cloudy varnish and confirms the above retouchings. The still life elements are almost wholly free of retouchings. The work is offered in a gilt molded frame, with a few minor knocks.
"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."