Attributed to Luigi Garzi

In the possession of the family of the present owner since circa 1940. 

Oil on canvas, lined. The canvas is somewhat slack on the stretcher. The stretcher is torqued at the lower left corner. Minor bumping at the upper corners. The surface is clean and fresh. A stable web of craquelure is visible over the entire surface; stretcher bar marks are also visible. Minor areas of pigment separation, especially in the blue of Arethusa's dress. Minor abrasions at the extreme edges. Under UV light, the majority of the work is obscured by a green varnish though there are scattered, older areas of retouching especially in the landscape along the lower edge.
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.

The subject is taken from Ovid, Metamorphoses, 5:572-641. As the nymph Arethusa bathed in a stream, the river god Alpheus chanced upon her and fell in love with her. Terrified, she fled but was eagerly pursued by her suitor. In the present composition we see Diana reaching down to envelop Arethusa in a cloud, just as the nymph's strength is beginning to fail her, and transform her into a stream which runs underground.

We are grateful to Giancarlo Sestieri for suggesting the attribution to Garzi, based on photographs.