GASPAR DE CRAYER | Ferdinand, Cardinal-Infante of Spain (1610–1641), on horseback

The following condition report is provided by Henry Gentle who is an external specialist and not an employee of Sotheby's: Gaspar de Crayer Equestrian portrait of Ferdinand Oil on canvas, in a modern gilt wood frame with some losses The original canvas is lined, the lining is of some age and has degraded resulting in a loss of tension. Three horizontal seams and one small vertical seam are visible under raking light. There is a visible clean fracture with minimal paint loss to the left of the sitter's head, another through the horse's rump and back leg and one underneath the muzzle. A 6 cm wide restored strip is apparent all round the image. The paint layer is generally in good original condition, it is raised and unstable ,however, and in some areas there is recent flaked loss. Under UV light a scattering of restorations can be seen, particularly through the background, where previous minor loss has occurred. The paint texture to the horse and rider are preserved, which include fine details to the ornamentation of the rider's clothing and to the horse's saddle and bridle. The varnish has considerably discoloured and degraded and its removal would significantly improve the overall tonality and reveal colours that retain their original vibrancy and the subtlety of the artist's palette.
"This lot is offered for sale subject to Sotheby's Conditions of Business, which are available on request and printed in Sotheby's sale catalogues. The independent reports contained in this document are provided for prospective bidders' information only and without warranty by Sotheby's or the Seller."