Follower of Guido Reni

Acquired by Sir John Wright Guise, 3rd Bart., G.C.B. (1777-1865) during the Peninsular Wars 1812-14;
Thence by family descent.

The canvas has a fairly old lining which is stable. The paint surface is generally very well preserved, although the extreme lower areas are now a little worn. There are some small retouchings throughout although they are almost exclusively confined to the lower third of the picture. The craquelure is now quite pronounced. There is a layer of old dirt and varnish and the painting would benefit from a clean. Sold with an ornate gilt frame, in good condition.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The composition appears to based on a lost work by Guido Reni. Another copy, incorporating only Saint Francis and the skull, without the background landscape, was sold in these Rooms, 8 February 1978, lot 56 (as Reni).