Studio of Frans Pourbus the Younger

Canvas is unlined. Painting has not been cleaned in a number of decades. Paint layer is stable, but craquelure more prominent near all edges of painting. There are a few scattered and small losses to background near edges, some of which reveal the canvas and some of which are visible to naked eye. Thinness to paint in figure's ear and retouching visible in figure's forehead. UV light confirms a slightly discolored varnish, underneath which old retouches are faintly visible. Picture could benefit from a light cleaning and restoration. Painting is unframed.
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 painting is based on the full-length portrait of the Duke by Pourbus, dated to circa 1600-1601, in a private collection, Rome.  In format, it resembles most closely the half-length version by the artist, dated slightly later to circa 1602-1603, in the Gemäldegalerie, Dresden.¹

1.  For both portraits, see B. Ducos, Frans Pourbus Le Jeune 1569-1622, Dijon 2011, p. 203, cat. no. P.A. 18, reproduced; and p. 205, cat. no. P.A. 21, reproduced.