Neapolitan School, 17th Century

Relined and under a very discolored and uneven old varnish. The canvas is lifting away from the stretcher at lower left where there is a small tear, and there is some cracking and small paint loss at lower right corner. The aforementioned relining is tight resulting in some pressing of the paint surface and pattern of the canvas weave becoming visible in the surface. There are old repaired areas and retouches that are visible to the naked eye: an old tear in lower part of angel's robe, in background area between the angel's outstretched hand and lily, along the right edge, and others scattered in the background and figures. As is typical with Neapolitan paintings of this age, the dark background pigments have sunken and lost some definition. Despite these issues, there are still very good passages of paint in the figures which read very well and are quite lovely. Under UV: retouches scattered throughout, most of which can be seen with naked eye. This painting has not been attended to in a very long time and would benefit from sensitive restoration. The painting will require work, but with a re-addressing of the old, badly done restorations it should improve and will be an attractive painting. Offered in a gilt edged frame with velvet all around sides.
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 possible attribution to Onofrio Palumbo has been suggested for this lot.  Palumbo studied with Artemisia Gentileschi during her stay in Naples and the facial types in this Annunciation are reminiscent of her style.