Studio of Carlo Cignani

Relined and under a dirty and uneven old varnish. the paint surface has been slightly pressed, but overall is quite well preserved and painting reads well and presents a strong image. there is a large and crudely repaired vertical tear (about 12 in. long) at right side that runs from red drapery down through the frame of the bed. another old repaired diagonal tear can be seen in frame of bed to left of her legs that runs down into white drapery. old discolored retouching can be seen along bottom edge and a couple of very small punctures in upper background. examination under UV light shows retouching to tears mentioned above and along a probable scratch on her thigh; some retouching and reinforcement to the outlines of the bed at right side; other small retouches here and there in background. flesh tones of the figures are generally good with only a few very small retouches. this painting needs some work to re-address some of the old, crudely done restorations but should improve and be a very impressive work. Offered in a carved and gilt wood frame.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Cignani revisited the subject of Joseph and Potiphar's wife, depicting the pair in various formats.  This studio version follows the composition of Cignani's autograph painting in the Statens Museum for Kunst, Copenhagen.¹

1.  See B. Buscaroli Fabbri, Carlo Cignani: Affreschi, dipinti, disegni, Bologna 1991, pp. 132 - 134.