Attributed to Pietro Longhi

The Dukes of Newcastle;
Anonymous sale, London, Sotheby's, 27 November 1957, lot 116, for £400, to Cevat;
Conte Gerli, Milan, by 1963;
With Carlo Orsi, Milan.

Milan, Carlo Orsi, Pietro Longhi, 24 dipinti da collezioni private, 7–21 May, no. 4, reproduced in colour.

'La collezione Conte Paolo Gerli di Villa Gaeta', in Acropoli, 1963, p. 323;
T. Pignatti, Pietro Longhi, Venice 1968, p. 91, reproduced pl. 113;
T. Pignatti, L'opera complete di Pietro Longhi, Milan 1974, p. 90, no. 54, reproduced.

The canvas is lined, the paint surface is clean and the varnish is slightly discoloured. There are a few small areas of visible retouching in the centre. Inspection under ultraviolet light is impeded by the thick, milky varnish underneath which there appear to be small areas of retouching, for instance in the central standing figure's leg and the hem of her dress, but it is very difficult to discern more than this. The image however is clear and readable in its current state. Offered in a parcel gilt and painted, carved wood frame with some minor losses.
"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."