The colours are a little warmer than the catalogue illustration suggests. The canvas has a fairly recent relining which is still sound. The painting has recently been cleaned and restored. The paint surface is a little pressed but is generally in quite good condition. Inspection under ultra violet light reveals quite extensive recent restoration across much of the picture. There are no major damages, the largest seemingly being a repaired 8 cm. tear on the guitar player's ruff, and another of 6 cm on the sleeve of the young girl and a third of 5 cm. to the hat of the standing man. Most repairs are touchings out to old losses or small damages, notably in the background, or to careful touching out of the craquelure, notably in the flesh tones of the young woman. The greatest concentration is in the area to the left of the table and around the hat of the guitar player. The restoration has been carefully carried out and is unobtrusive and the painting should require no further attention. The varnish layer is glossy and even. Offered with a later Louis XIV style gilt wood frame in good condition, some minor damages.
"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."