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 intelligent modeling of the face and the painterly approch to execution remain fully appreciable in this portrait. The canvas has been relined, it is held under tension and remains stable. There is a historic varnish which carries some dirt, this is evident in the paler passages of the composition. A fine pattern of craquelure is apparent in natural light, with some small associated retouchings. There appears to be a small area of heat damage to the red of the sitter's cloak, lower right. There has been some slight thinning to the paint of the background, allowing the ground colour to be seen ever so slightly in areas. Examination in UV light confirms the aforementioned retouching to the craquelure. There has been some further retouching, notably to the sitter's sleeve and to the background. There is some further minor scattered retouching. The varnish precludes a more in depth commentary. The paint remains stable.
Print Report