The Hearst Collection;
Ugo Donati, Lugano, by 1947;
Private collection, Lugano, since 1947.

The panel is uncradled and comprised of three pieces of wood with 2 vertical joins. It is flat and stable. Under a dull, uneven varnish. The painting is in overall good condition, the paint surface has been well preserved and the figure reads very well. There is a slight degree of thinness in the darks of the costume. Some old discolored retouches can be seen with naked eye in the background at right side. Under UV light: the varnish fluoresces unevenly. Retouches as mentioned above. There is some reinforcement of the darks in the costume, particularly at the left side over his shoulder and arm. Offered in a carved, ebonized 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.