Oil on thickly woven canvas. There is a loss, approximately 1 inch long, along the upper right edge, above St John's fingers. The surface is in generally good condition aside from a stable web of craquelure; surface dirt and dust; and a slightly dirty varnish. Older retouches in Saint John's face, neck and shoulders have lightened with time. Under UV light, scattered retouches are visible throughout the work. A larger area of retouching at upper right corner; small scattered retouches in the background and around the contours of Saint John's face; an area to the left of his ear; and a few slightly larger areas of retouching in the center of his chest, his armpit, and his proper right wrist. And additional horizontal line of retouching, approximately 4 inches long, visible at lower left corner. In a black wood and gilt 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.