Attributed to Lavinia Fontana

Alberico XII d'Este, Prince of Barbiano and Belgioioso, according to an old label on reverse: DEL GABINETTO DI S.A. / ALBERICO XII D'ESTE / PRINCIPE DI BARBIANO E DI BELGIOIOSO.

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 is in un-restored condition and in its beautiful period frame it will certainly be extremely presentable with a small amount of attention. The panel is un-reinforced, except for a small batten across the bottom edge. The paint layer is dirty and although a little grainy in places, there are no visible restorations or abrasions. Cupid's bow is a little thin however if this picture were to be cleaned and retouched where necessary, it would become considerably brighter and in its period frame will be very presentable.
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 small painting was owned by Alberico XII Barbiano di Belgioioso d'Este, Prince of Cunio (1725-1813).  As a soldier and statesman he was the leading figure of the Milanese Enlightenment.  Perhaps most interesting was the role he played in the artistic community: he was the first prefect of the Brera museum in Milan (in 1776), and brought to completion the construction on the Palazzo Belgioioso in Milan, considered one of the best expressions of neoclassical design in the city.