Lambert Sustris

The canvas has recently been cleaned and relined. The paint surface is in reasonable condition but has suffered from wear in the past in some areas, notably in the flesh tones that have subsequently been restored. There is an old repaired 10 x 5 cm T-shaped tear in the face of Judith. The restoration has been sensitively carried out and the painting will require no further attention.
"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."

On the basis of style the painting should be dated to the artist's German period around 1550; what appears to be an inferior version or more likely a copy is listed as being in Cologne (see Witt Library mount). Another treatment  of the subject was offered London, Christie's, 7 December 2010, lot 16.

We are grateful to Dottor Vincenzo Mancini, of the Fondazione Cini in Venice and author of a monograph on Sustris, for endorsing the attribution on the basis of a photograph.