Studio of Johann Carl Loth

D. Alfonso José Biln de Bourdon y Navarro de Palencia, Madrid;
Charcas, on the premises, 1963 (?).

The canvas has a sensitive lining, the paint surface is dirty and the varnish is even but discoloured. There is a seam or fold running vertically through the centre of the canvas, along which are discoloured old retouchings. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals other localised areas of retouching, mainly in the shadows to the left of the stomach of the prodigal son, in the shoulder and sleeve of the boy, lower left, under the prodigal son's left elbow, and scattered along the margins and in the 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. 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."

One of several versions of The Return of the Prodigal Son from the studio of Loth. One fully autograph work is, for example, in the Gemäldesammlungen in Kassel.¹

1. G. Ewald, Johann Carl Loth, Amsterdam 1965, p 76, cat. no. 175, reproduced pl. 18.