French School, 19th Century

Oil on canvas, lined. Stretcher bar marks are visible, especially at right and upper edges. The surface is covered by a discolored, dull varnish. There is a small scuff to the background at the lower left corner and a fine scratch in the background extending from the left edge to the subject's armpit. The picture surface is in generally good condition. Small scattered dots of discoloration, potentially studio dirt, are visible throughout the subjects neck and torso. Under UV light, very small dots and dashes of old retouching are visible in the background at upper right. Additional dots and dashes in the subject's uplifted elbow and along the outline of his upper arm. Two horizontal lines of retouching, likely associated to the stretcher bar, visible in the subject's upper torso. Additional small dashes visible in the contour of his proper right chest. Additional very faintly fluorescing retouches are visible in the background. In a gold wood frame with minor losses.
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.