Michelangelo Ricciolini

Private collection, USA.

Relined and under a thick and uneven old varnish. The paint surface has been generally well retained with good detail in the figures of Daniel and the lion. There is some discolored retouching visible to the naked eye in the blue pigment of the upper sky and there is an area of abrasion with some loss in the background at far left side (as is visible in the catalogue image). Some very small dots of discolored old retouching can be seen in Daniel's white drapery. Under UV light: retouching in the upper sky as mentioned; there are also areas of retouching on the tongue of the lion, a few on the background figures, on the armpit of Daniel, some reinforcements of the folds of his dark drapery, and some retouches throughout the upper left corner area. The flesh tones of Daniel look good. This painting would benefit from sensitive restoration and a re-addressing of some of the old and now discolored restorations that could be redone better. Offered in a black carved and parcel-gilt wood frame.
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.

We are grateful to Dottor Francesco Petrucci for proposing the attribution on the basis of images. He dates the work to 1685-90, when the artist was still influenced by Carlo Maratta.