Attributed to Benjamin West, P.R.A. and Studio

The catalogue photograph appears darker than the actual painting. the old glue relining is firm and stable. some minor scuffing at top from rubbing of the frame. the paint surface has been very well preserved and there is very good retention of detail and strong coloration. under UV light: there are scattered retouches to the costumes of the figures with a concentration on lower part of Juliet's dress and in Romeo's cloak. other scattered retouches can be seen in green curtain at right and in the dark column at far left side. there are others scattered here and there in background with more concentrated at lower right. flesh tones of the figures look quite good. these old restorations have been well applied and the painting is presentable as is. Offered in a gilt wood frame with decorative carving at corners.
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.

This painting is a version of a work by West, signed and dated London 1778, now in the collection of the New Orleans Museum of Art.  Although the prime version is dated 1778, the date of 1775 on an engraving by G. Scorodomow, showing a bust length detail of the two main figures, indicates that West had worked out that part of the composition by then.  The painting depicts the moment in William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet when the two lovers, having spent the night together following their secret marriage, are debating whether it is still night or whether dawn is breaking and Romeo has to flee.  Juliet’s nurse warns them that her mother is on her way to the bedchamber.  West did other paintings based on Shakespearean subjects, notably scenes from Hamlet, King Lear and Macbeth.