José Maria Vázquez (1755-1855)

Private collection, New York

This portrait has been recently restored and should be hung in its current condition. The canvas is lined, cleaned, retouched and varnished. If one examines the picture under ultraviolet light once can see that the face, the light colors of the ermine and almost all of the body in the lower portion and right hand side is unretouched. The same can be said of the right side of the background. On the left side, beginning at the arm of the emperor, there is a vertical band of restorations running from the top of the painting through the back of the chair and a bit of the sitter's sleeves. These restorations have been applied carefully and accurately. They do not enter the face or any important part of the picture. (This condition report has been provided courtesy of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc.)
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.