The painting is more yellow than the catalogue ilustration.The relined canvas is on a broken stretcher and is subsequently loose. Two large patches have been attached rather crudely to the reverse and correspond to areas of restoration in the left elbow and bottom of the child lower right. Several areas of damage can be seen for example a horizontal line 45 cm to the left of the womans head as well as several crudely restored holes upper left, to her chest and hand, in the putto lower left, in other areas lower centre, lower left and upper right. Old frame abrasion is particularly prevalent to the right edge. Surface scratches can be made out in the lower half of the composition. Due to the relining, the square weave of the canvas can be made out, particularly in the figures. Inspection under UV light reveals very minor further retouching. Though the painted has several areas of past restoration and damage, large passages are in good original condition under the thick varnish. 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."

We are grateful to Dr. Emilio Negro for proposing an attribution to Francesco Gessi on the basis of photographs.