Head study of a nun

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 an old paste lining that maintains a good tension and remains stable at present. There are several small repairs: a small tear repair running from beneath the sitter’s right eye and through her nose, another small area in the upper left background and two small restorations in the lower left quadrant.
Close examination reveals the drawing and essence of the painterly brushwork to be well preserved, despite the aforementioned losses. The texture of the paint is uniform as a consequence of the lining treatment and there is a degree of surface abrasion to the darkest passages. There is a tiny loss to an aged restoration in the lower left corner.
Ultra-violet fluorescence examination reveals the presence of the extensive restored losses, notably through the centre of the sitter's face. There are two repaired tears, one vertical and one horizontal of approximately 10 cm. each, to the right of the sitter's head. There is a further scheme retouching to reduce the appearance of surface abrasion. The paint remains stable.