Circle of Doménikos Theotokopoulos, called El Greco

Emile Wolf, New York;
Thence by descent to the present owners.

The canvas is unlined. Under a dirty, discolored old varnish. There is a prominent craquelure pattern throughout, most noticeable in the flesh tones and other lighter pigments. Some old discolored repairs can be seen in the background at upper left and some other small losses and fills in the red drapery at left side. As a result these areas have a somewhat uneven surface. Overall the surface is a bit pressed and there is some wear in the areas of drapery. Despite this, the figure still reads well. Under UV light: there are some retouches on forehead, right cheek, around mouth and on chin. Others in the background upper left, as mentioned, and in red drapery. Others scattered here and there. In an elaborately black and gilt carved frame.
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.

This figure is loosely based on that of Saint James Major from the two Apostle series by El Greco in the El Greco Museum, Toledo, and the Palace of the Marqués de San Feliz, Oviedo.