Roman School, First Half 17th Century

Anonymous sale, London, Christie's, 28 April 1950, lot 124 (as Carracci), for 38 Guineas, to Wengraf;
The Earl of Fingall, Killeen Castle, Co. Meeth, Ireland, 21 July 1953, possibly lot 410;
Mrs. Marika Philips (the illegitimate daughter of Diego Rivera), Athelhampton House, Dorset;
Private Collection, Dorset;
Anonymous sale ("The Property of a Lady"), London, Christie's, 3 December 1997, lot 229 (as Emilio Savonanzi), where unsold;
Anonymous sale, Duke's, 14 April 2011, lot 151 (as attributed to Lodovico Carracci).

The canvas has an old and firm relining. The paint surface has been flattened as a result. The paint surface is secure. The darks of the background have sunk but the whites and flesh tones retain a luminosity and are largely clean, despite some minor yellowing. Sensitive retouchings are visible, although not obvious, in the face, hands, letter and background. For the most part this consists of the infilling of craquelure. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals an even varnish and confirms the aforementioned retouchings. The work is offered in a Florentine Baraque carved and gilt frame in good condition.
"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."