Acquired by the family of the present owner in London, circa 1975.

Relined and under an uneven varnish. The overall condition of the painting is good and stable, the figure reads very well and the image is striking and impressive. There are some areas of darkened and discolored retouching that are visible to the naked eye in the background at center right (over an L-shaped tear) and left, and at the lower right corner. The paint surface is a bit pressed and thin in parts of his purple cloak, mostly the lower part, and these areas have lost some of their definition. Examination under UV light: retouches as mentioned above. Another area of retouching can be seen over a repaired L-shaped tear at upper center in the feather, another small retouch at upper right corner, an area on Goliath's forehead, in lower left corner and a few on lower drapery and right shoulder. These old damages and restorations are mainly in the background areas and the figure of David is overall very well intact. This painting has not been attended to in a long time and would benefit from sensitive restoration and a re-addressing of the older discolored retouches. Offered in a brown painted and gilt wood frame with gold stenciled decoration at corners and sides.
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.

Another version of the present composition, also signed in monogram on the sword, is located in the Pinacoteca Foresiana, Livorno.