Genoese School, 17th century

Öl auf Leinwand, doubliert,

The canvas has a very old and sensitive relining. The paint surface is very discoloured and the varnish old and dull. There are scattered accretions, scuffs and small losses throughout. The most substantial areas of loss are, firstly, in the very centre to the hand of the figure kissing the body of Christ and, secondly, to Christ’s elbow at the bottom margin. There is an old horizontal damage measuring 7 inches in length under the head of the turbaned figure on the left. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals very little: the varnish fluoresces opaque and as such any earlier restoration is not visible. The painting is offered in a black and gilt wood frame with some chips and 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. 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."

We are grateful to Dr. Mary Newcome for tentatively suggesting an attribution to Bartolomeo Biscaino (Genoa 1629 - 1657) following the inspection of a digital image.