Follower of Sir Peter Lely

STRUCTURE The canvas has been lined. PAINT SURFACE The painting appears to be in good condition. There is evidence of a thick and uneven layer of discoloured varnish overall but there is no significant damage or loss of paint, however there are several minor abrasions where the edge of the canvas meets the frame, most noticeable in the top right hand corner. There also appears to be a small vertical repaired tear measuring approx. 10 cm. above the sitter's elbow, and a minor unrepaired vertical tear measuring approx. 2 cm. in the sitter's left hand sleeve. There is alos a fine craquelure throughout which is consistent with the age of the painting. ULTRAVIOLET Examination under ultraviolet light confirms both the opacity of the varnish and the presence of the tear, whilst revealing some very minor retouching to the sitter's cheek and lips and hair. FRAME Held in a period carved and gilded wooden frame To speak to a specialist about this lot please contact Julian Gascoigne on +44 (0)207 293 5482, or at julian.gascoigne@sothebys.com, or Ludo Shaw Stewart on +44 (0)207 293 5816, or at ludovic.shawstewart@sothebys.com.
"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 stat.mes nt made by Replica Shoes '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."