The canvas is unlined. The paint surface is secure and appears to be in good condition under a very old dirty varnish which impedes thorough inspection under UV although some strengthening to the outline of the lower right figure is just discernable. Offered unframed.
"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."

A period copy after the work in the Barbara Piasecka Johnson Collection (canvas, 116 by 173 cm), considered by Professoressa Mina Gregori and others to be Caravaggio's lost original (see M. Gregori in Opus Sacrum, exhibition catalogue, Warsaw 1990, pp. 166-173, cat. no. 28, reproduced p. 167).