Spanish School, 17th Century

The catalogue illustration is slightly too dark. The canvas has been relined. There are a number of repaired tears and damages, visible both in raking light and under UV: a 4-5cm. strip of canvas has been reattached along the left vertical side; another repaired vertical tear runs parallel to it, approx. 10 cm. to the right of it, from the top edge down to the white horse's muzzle; the repaired tears continue above, through and around the horseman riding the white horse. There is considerable repaint over these areas, particularly along and around the lines of the tears (extending as far as the arm of the standing soldier lower left). Further significant repaired damages occur on the horseman just right of centre in an area measuring approx. 45cm. x 6cm., and this damage extends further up through the sky to the upper edge. A large vertical damage is visible alongside and through the standing soldier lower right (again measuring approx. 50 cm.), extending down to the lower edge, and another damage runs perpendicular to it, through the dead soldier lower right (also approx. 50 cm. in length). Inspection under UV shows numerous scattered retouchings, strengthenings and smaller damages and further repaint should be assumed in peripheral areas such as the tree at the right edge. Where the painting has not suffered damages or tears the surface appears in reasonable condition, showing only slight signs of wear in the mid- to distant background where the paint was applied more thinly. The picture has suffered considerable structural damage, however, which has resulted in tears that are obvious to the naked eye: these are disturbing but could be much improved with a sensitive restoration. This lot is offered in a modern, rather crudely carved gold-painted 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. 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."