The panel has been thinned in the past and has a vertical bow. There are three cracks running the length of the panel vertically, two of which have been reinforced with batons on the reverse and filled and retouched on its face. The third has opened slightly, resulting in minor losses to the paint along it through the hair and beard, and requires attention. There are two repaired vertical cracks running approximately 4 in. from the lower edge and another under running 4 in. from the upper edge. Inspection under UV reveals scattered minor retouched losses throughout, concentrated further along the aforementioned vertical cracks. There is an area of inpaint to the temple of approximately 1 1/2 in. and another of a similar size in the shadow between the eye and nose. The panel would require attention from a restorer to correct and stabilise the bow and to fill and retouch the crack. Offered in a carved wood frame.
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.

This beautifully conceived panel clearly comes out of the tradition of Rubens and Van Dyck.  It can be related to former's character heads and to latter's apostle series.  The age of the sitter and the loose robe suggest he may be either a Biblical or a character from classical history, such as Peter van Mol's Diogenes with His Lantern, Looking for an Honest Man, sold in these rooms 30 January 1997, lot 9.