The following condition report has been provided by Simon Parkes of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc. 502 East 74th St. New York, NY 212-734-3920, simonparkes@msn.com , an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. This painting does not appear to be lined. It has not been removed from its original stretcher and while the paint layer is slightly cracked, it is stable. The painting is slightly dirty but a fresh varnish will present the picture well. The smoke from the volcano is slightly abraded, as are the tops of the buildings and some of the masts as they extend into the sky. Overall this is an almost completely unrestored painting in lovely state, which with a small amount of attention will be ready to hang.
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.

The composition of the present picture relates closely, though with some differences, to another painting of the same subject by Antoniani (see Nicola Spinosa, Vedute napoletane del Settecento, Naples 1989, p. 264, cat. no. 97, figure 94). Another variation by Antoniani was sold at Sotheby's New York, May 21, 1998, lot 240.