Manner of Francesco da Ponte, il Giovane called Bassano

The canvas is unframed and has been relined. The paint surface is a little dirty, but secure and in good condition, with a fine craquelure running throughout. There are two small areas of paint loss, one just south of the nobleman's left wrist, the other approx. 2cm in length and running along the left hand side of the lower margin. Some old restored damages and areas of frame abrasion are visible to the naked eye due to uneveness in the paint surface and slight discolouration of their retouchings. Most notably, there are two restored damages of approximately 4cm2 on the left hand side of the upper edge, and there is a stretch of frame abrasion approximately 1cm in width along the right hand margin. There are no damages apparent in the face or collar of the portrayed. Inspection under UV light is impeded by the thick layer of varnish, but seems to confirm that the retouchings are mainly around the edges of the painting, and reveals just a handful of small spot retouchings to the nobleman.
"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."