Probably Victor Spark, New York, by 1968;
With Central Picture Galleries, New York, after 1968;
George Encil, Vienna and the Bahamas.

N. Barbanti-Grimaldi in Experience and Adventures of a Collector, Paris 1989, pp. 90-93 (as by Pier Francesco Mola);
F. Baldassari, La Pittura del Seicento a Firenze, Turin 2009, pp. 98, 653, reproduced colour plate LXXIX.

The original is a little more contrasted and richer in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests. The canvas has a fairly old lining which is stable. The paint surface is generally in good condition with very few problems. There is a small restored damage at the centre right, just to the right of Saint John’s staff in the drapery, approximately 2 by 2 cm., but no apparent further restored damages. There are some small spot retouchings in the areas of Saint John’s face in shadow (all minor in nature), and the background sky has been strengthened in places throughout. Otherwise the painting is in a good overall state. Sold with a fine gilt frame in good condition.
"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."

The attribution to Rosselli was first suggested by Eric Schleier (letter dated 21 August 1990), who pointed out the existence of a closely related chalk drawing in the National Gallery of Art, Washington (see ౠfig. 1).

Fig. 1: Saint John the Baptist, National Gallery of Art, Washington, red chalk on laid paper, 32.4 x 21 cm.