Studio of Giuseppe Maria Crespi

Acquired by the present owner in Rome circa 1960.

Oil on copper. Pinpoint losses on the upper right extreme edge. A few minor losses in the lower left corner; at the left edge, to the left of the boy and below his proper left arm. There are retouched losses visble in the boy's proper right arm; in the tree at upper center; and a few scattered along the lower edge. Under UV light, these retouches and losses all are visible. Additionally, there is very minor strengthening to the implement the boy is using to tickle the shepherdess' ear and to the proper right hairline of the shepherdess.
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 picture follows a composition by Crespi of a sleeping shepherdess, executed in the last half of the 1690s (see M.P. Merriman, Giuseppe Maria Crespi, Milan 1980, pp. 307-08, cat. nos. 253-54, reproduced figs. 253-54.)