To the naked eye: We couldn’t have access to the reverse of the work, inserted in a wooden box impeding the access. The primary support, a paper laid down on canvas, does not seem to present any tear or warp. Some little scratches are visible: one on the red book held by the model, one in the background on the right. Little white dots (paint loss) are visible in places, notably in the center right of the composition. The shades with the gouache and the watercolor are slightly altered and seem to have become darker with time. Matt surfaces, probably linked with the black gouache, appear in places, in the darker part of the headdress and on the collar, along the right sleeve and in the corners of the chair, together with other places disseminated on the paper. Under the UV light: The UV lamp reveals that darker areas with the gouache fluoresce, but they do not seem to be the result of recent restorations. The painting is framed with a faded golden frame, in the style of Renaissance.
"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."