Venetian School, 17th Century

Dr. Rene Spitz;
By whom given to the Stamford Museum & Nature Center, Stamford, Ct. (Acc. no. 56.11.112).

Relined. under an extremely dirty and discolored old varnish. the surface is very uneven which appears to be due to the canvas having been rolled up at some point. there are now vertical creases with old restoration running from top to bottom. these creases are more noticeable in the actual painting than in the catalogue image. there are numerous areas of old restoration scattered throughout the composition and an old tear in the background between Lot's legs. ultraviolet light reveals many of the aforementioned areas of restoration including a large area on lower part of the face of female figure at left. the condition of this painting has suffered, but despite the problems there are still good passages of paint and the image is still strong. this painting will take a great deal of work and will require sensitive restoration, but the appearance should be improveable. In a carved and gilt wood frame with some minor losses.
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.