Circle of Pietro Antonio Rotari

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 painting has been lined and the surface is stable. The varnish is quite dull and the surface may be slightly dirty. Retouches have been applied in the shadowed area of the face, in a few spots elsewhere on the face and in the background on both sides of the head. The clothing and body of the figure seem to be in very good state. We recommend that the picture be fully cleaned and if the restorations were to be applied more accurately, the picture would improve considerably.
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.

This portrait was traditionally thought to portray Catherine the Great of Russia in men's garb. The clothing, however, suggests an earlier period, perhaps 1740-50.  It has been suggested that this may be a portrait of Elizabeth I Petrovna, Catherine's mother-in-law, who was known for wearing men's clothing frequently, and for her cross-dressing balls and dinners in Saint Petersburg.