Workshop of Simon Vouet

Overall the painting presents a strong image and reads very well. The canvas has a modern glue relining and is stable on its stretcher. The paint surface is clean beneath a clear, fresh varnish. Areas in the darks have been slightly pressed in the relining process, notably in the figure's chignon and shadows on her neck. A clear reading under ultraviolet is impaired by a milky varnish but reveals an old, vertical repaired tear running approximately 3 inches through the drapery center right. Scattered minor retouches are visible in the flesh tones and areas of the drapery, though these are not apparent to the naked eye. The painting requires no further work and is ready to hang in its present. Offered in an elaborately carved gilt wood frame in 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.
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 repeats the composition of the work by Vouet in the Slovak National Gallery, Bratislava, Slovakia, which was painted in circa 1625, when the artist was still in Italy (oil on canvas, 98.7 by 74.2 cm, inv. no. O 302).