The following condition report is provided by Henry Gentle who is an external specialist and not an employee of Sotheby's:
El Greco St. Francis of Assisi Oil on canvas in a gilt and black painted frame with some losses
The original canvas is lined, the lining is in a good condition and there is good tension maintained across the canvas. The paint layer is in a good preserved condition; the lively textured brushwork, particularly to the Saint's habit, and impasted highlights are in a good original state. Under u-v light recent restoration is visible. It replaces minor loss to stretcher bar marks, to the fingers and palm of the raised right hand, to the shadow in the hood by the Saints' proper right eye and the habit behind the proper left hand. Further minor scattered loss can be detected across the surface to mitigate exposed canvas texture and pale ground colour. Fine details in the face are intact and chromatic and tonal nuances are evident and in a preserved state.
"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."
