Studio of Bartolomé Esteban Murillo

Tsar Paul I of Russia (1754-1801);
Count Ilinsky;
Countess de Kurzeniecka;
Laan Sale, Geneva, Moos, 9 February 1934, lot 126, as "Guido Reni" (all according to old labels on the reverse).

"The following condition report has been provided by Henry Gentle, an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. The original canvas is lined and the paint is secure and flat. There is evidence of small flaked paint loss to Christ's robe, his flesh tones and to the shadows of his face with some restoration to reduce this. The ground colour has become dominant in the background, particularly to the left of Christ's head, and this has been excessively strengthened. Overall, the texture of the painting is well preserved and the brushstrokes and glazes in the more vulnerable passages are intact. The varnish has significantly discoloured and removing it would enhance the tonality. Offered in a plain moulded gilt wood frame in good condition."
"This lot is offered for sale subject to Sotheby's Conditions of Business, which are available on request and printed in Sotheby's sale catalogues. The independent reports contained in this document are provided for prospective bidders' information only and without warranty by Sotheby's or the Seller."

We are grateful to Prof. Don Enrique Valdivieso for proposing that these paintings were executed in the studio of Murillo. The prototypes for both are in the Museo del Prado in Madrid (see D. Iñiguez, Murillo, Madrid 1981, vol. II, pp. 219-20, cat. nos. 248 & 249, reproduced vol. III, pls. 331 & 332).