Attributed to Gerard Soest

STRUCTURE The canvas has been lined. PAINT SURFACE The painting appears to be good condition. The paint is starting to blister slightly in the upper section of the canvas, and there are scattered areas of very minor flaking, particularly lower right. This flaking could be remedied with sensitive restoration, and there is no significant paint loss. The paint in the sitters costume is quite thin in places, and there is a thick layer of dirt and discoloured varnish overall. ULTRAVIOLET Examination under ultraviolet light reveals retouching in the upper and lower sections of the painting, particularly in the upper right. There is one small area of retouching in the sitter's cheek, as well as scattered flecks of minor retouching overall, which appears to be stabilising old flaking. FRAME Held in a carved and gilded wooden frame. To speak to a specialist about this lot please contact Julian Gascoigne on +44 (0)207 293 5482, or at julian.gascoigne@sothebys.com, or Ludo Shaw Stewart on +44 (0)207 293 5816, or at ludovic.shawstewart@sothebys.com.
"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."