Attributed to Massimo Stanzione

The canvas has a firm relining. The paint surface retains its texture and there is some good quality impasto throughout her mantle and hair. Although the background colours have sunk, the colours in the flesh tones and fabrics have remained strong and are clean. Overall the paint surface is in good condition. There are five repaired holes, visible to the naked eye. The largest is in the upper right, measuring 6 by 6 cm; the second lies lower left; 5 by 5 cm; the third lower left, 2 by 2 cm; the fourth is above the girl's head, 3 by 3.5 cm, and beside that a very small hole 0.5 cm. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals scattered spot retouching throughout the figure and the skull, as well as repair to the aforementioned holes. This lot is offered in a carved gilt wood frame, in very good 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."

We are grateful to Nicola Spinosa for endorsing the attribution to Massimo Stanzione, on the basis of a photograph. He dates the work to soon after 1630, comparing it to Lot and his Daughters in the Pinacoteca Nazionale of Cosenza (inv. 111). We are also grateful to Thomas C. Willette for proposing the alternative attribution to Francesco Guarino, on the basis of a photograph.