The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.
The canvas has been relined and is providing reasonable support for the picture. Whilst the surface is perfectly stable there are some slightly raised areas of craquelure in the upper half of the composition that may need addressing in the future. There are three patches of later canvas that have been inserted on the right hand edge: in the upper right corner, the lower right corner, and in the middle. Each of these strips of canvas have associated later paint, and are clearly visible in natural light. They were presumably inserted to replace damaged parts of the canvas.
The examination under UV shows retouching to his face and hair, and to the darker tones of the background and his armour, but a more thorough reading is impeded by the varnish.
Print Report