The canvas is lined. Repairs are visible to the naked eye throughout the background, concentrated in the upper half of the painting. There are no visible areas of loss, and there is a fine web of craquelure throughout that is stable. What appears to be a fold in the canvas runs vertically on the left side, an inch from the edge. Inspection under UV reveals a thick, milky varnish, though most of the repairs are already visible to the naked eye. Offered in a ebonized wood frame with a gold inner liner.
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.

The attribution of this intriguing painting of a prophet has continued to elude scholars.  The handling and use of color points to a French painter who has spent time in Rome, perhaps in the circle of Claude Vignon, though it has also been suggested that the artist is Italian and working in the circle of Pier Francesco Mola.