With Leger Galleries, London;
From whom purchased by present owner in 1963.

The panel is flat and stable and made up of three vertical boards, beveled on all four edges. The two panel joins had been previously strengthened with three large butterfly reinforcements, now removed and replaced with five smaller ones to each join. The panel joins are faintly visible in the background on the face of the painting but are not distracting in any way. The paint surface overall is clean, the varnish is a little dry and spotted in the lower section and could perhaps be reapplied to improve the definition of the darks. The panel joints are faintly visible on the face of the panel particularly along the in the of the section of the background and in the lower section. Inspection under UV is impeded somewhat by the streaked varnish. There appear to be very refined retouches through the beard and mustache and following the lines of wood grain here and there in the face. There is perhaps further strengthening in the darks of the drapery though this is difficult to read through the varnish. Offered in an elaborately carved 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.