Circle of Sebastiano Ceccarini

In overall fair condition. The canvas is lined, the paint surface is dirty and the varnish is slightly discoloured and dulled. There are a few small areas of discoloured retouching in the sitter's forehead and neck. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals these aforementioned patches, as well as retouchings in the centre of the upper margin, along the upper half of the left margin and scattered along the lower margin. There is retouching to an old diagonal surface scratch in the upper left corner, 11cm. long, and small retouchings in the sitter's face, his hand and scattered in his garments. There appears to be wash strengthening to the dark folds of his cassock and along his neckline.
"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."

It has been suggested the sitter is Cardinal Marc'Antonio Marcolini (1721–1728). Sebastiano Ceccarini painted Cardinal Marcolini on another occasion; two versions of this other portrait exist, both show the Cardinal standing, as opposed to seated as we see him here, and wearing heavily embroidered dress, holding a book aloft in his left hand; one is in a painted oval.¹

Another portrait, not definitely identified as depicting Marcolini but thought to be close in its physiognomy, is referenced in the 1992 monograph on the artist as having been sold at Christie's, London, 6 July 1978, lot 16.

1. Both versions of Ceccarini's other portrait of Marcolini are published by Bonita Cleri in Sebastiano Ceccarini, Milan 1992, pp. 161–62, cat. no. 92, reproduced figs 92 and 92.1.