Studio of Francesco Albani

The canvas is relined. This picture is in quite favorable condition having retained nice color saturation, especially in the reds and the delicate blues of the sky. There are a few areas of retouching, namely one 1 x 1" area lower center and another in the top middle of the sky. There are a few other small cosmetic retouches in the sky and landscape though these are quite minor and do not repair any major losses or damages. The small retouches are applied skillfully and do not need to be redone. The picture could hang in its current condition. In a card to giltwood 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.

This composition is based on Francesco Albani's Venus and Vulcan in the Gemäldegalerie, Alte Meister in Dresden, which has been dated to circa 1640-1650.¹

1. See Faszination Venus: Bilder einer Göttin von Cranach bis Cabanel, exhibition catalogue, Cologne 2000, pp. 368-369, reproduced.