Follower of Marco Ricci

The first as illustrated at the top in the catalogue is represetnative and the vcanvas has been relined. Th epaint surface is in good overall condition with no apparent damage or loss of paint. There is surface dirt and a thick varnish overall. Examination under ultraviolet reveals scattered minor cosmetic retoucing throughout the sky and some very minor strengthening to the architecture on the left. Otherwise the picture is in good original condition. The second (middle) and third (bottom) pictures are slightly cooler in tone than the catalogue illustrations would suggest. The paint surface of the secnd is in good overall condition with no apparent damage or loss of paint however there are very minor old scattered flakes of paint loss upper right and centre left caused by an old now stabilised craquelure. There is surface dirt overall. There is also evidence of retoucing to the canvas edges visible under a raking light as well as a paint loss to the tree leaves upper left. Examination under ultrviolet confirms the aforementioned retouching and reveals some further minor scattered retouchings including to an old minor area of damaeg to the background centre left and also to old but faint stretcher bar marks. The third is again covered in surface dirt and a slightly blanching varnish. The paint surface is in fair condition and there are the same probelms with an old craquelure which has led to flaking and associated paint loss, noticeably in the lower right and in the foliage upper left, but this is only visible under a raking light. Examination under ultraviolet reveals retouching tot he craquelure and further scattered throughout the darker pigments. Thers is also strengthening to the foreground tree on the left. All are offered in matching gilt wood and plaster frames in good overall 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."