Gennaro Greco

The actual painting is more blue in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests. The canvas has an old but still effective relining. The paint surface is under a dry and dirty varnish. There is a slightly coarse craquelure throughout which has resulted in some tiny scattered losses, which have been retouched, e.g. in the sky and figures in the centre. There's a retouched horizontal surface scratch running just below the upper edge, possibly due to a prior, smaller frame. The impasto of the highlights is very nicely preserved. Inspection under UV light confirms the aforementioned and reveals a few retouched losses in the lower right corner and along the right edge, and some very minor strengthening of the figures. Offered in a plain wood frame with carved decorations in all four corners 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."