Canvas has been glue relined. The surface is dirty and under a dull and uneven old varnish. Old fills and restorations can be seen on the right side, forehead, lower left and an area to right of his hand. The canvas has been slightly pressed, more noticeably in the area of his hand at lower left, but there is still nice brushwork and modeling in face. The unevenness of the surface could be improved with a new relining. Under UV light: retouches as mentioned above fluoresce; there are also some visible in the background and along edges, and there are possibly some older restorations under the old varnish along the right edge. These restorations have been crudely done and with sensitive restoration the appearance of this painting could certainly be improved. In a carved and gilt 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 head study is based on Jusepe Ribera's half length depiction of A Philosopher, possibly portraying Archimedes, in a private collection, Madrid.¹

1.  For the Madrid prototype see N. Spinosa, Ribera: La obra completa, Madrid 2008, p. 370, cat. no. A110, reproduced.