CESARE DANDINI | The procuress

The actual painting is warmer in tone and shows more contrast than the catalogue illustration would suggest. The painting has been relined (wax). No major damages seem to be apparent. An old horizontal repaired tear of ca. 5cm can be seen in between the heads of the figures at their nose level, and around the right edge. The painted surface seems to be in a good condition. We can see some nice preserved impastos. The painted surface is covered with a dirty and discoloured old varnish layer. The craquelure pattern is fine and dense, consistent with its age. Tiny discoloured retouchings can be seen in the flesh tone of the young woman and in the dark background. Thinness can be observed in the darker areas of the background. Under UV light The varnish layer fluoresces almost completely, showing the retouchings mentioned above. Some thinness can be observed in the back of the shoulder of the young woman, some scattered in the dress of the lady, and one lower right. Offered in a carved giltwood frame with an oval opening.
"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 Sandro Bellesi who has kindly endorsed the attribution on the basis of photographs.