The following condition report has been provided by Simon Parkes of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc. 502 East 74th St. New York, NY 212-734-3920, simonparkes@msn.com, an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's.
This work is in excellent condition. The canvas has an old glue lining. The painting is clean and varnished. Retouches are clearly visible under ultraviolet light. The background shows no retouches. In the blue cloak, there is a retouching to the right of the forehead, and in two spots to the right of the cheek. There is a small retouching in the sleeve in the lower right corner, and some small retouches beneath the hands in prayer. The hands themselves show only a few tiny spots of retouching. There is a line of retouching, measuring about 1 to 1 ½ inches, in the figure's cheek running across to her top lip. It is unlikely that there is any further retouching beneath the slightly opaque varnish. The work should be hung in its current 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.