Le tableau est moins rouge et un peu plus jaune que dans l’illustration du catalogue. A l’œil nu : Le tableau apparaît dans un état de conservation satisfaisant. Le tableau est peint sur un panneau de chêne constitué d’une seule planche avec une couche de plâtre au revers, endommagée partiellement. On remarque des manques de matière dans la partie supérieure à droite, le long du bord supérieur, du bord gauche (visibles dans l’illustration du catalogue) ainsi que quelques manques plus petits en bas à droite. Certains sont dus à la sécheresse de la couche picturale. Certains de ces manques ont été restaurés de façon débordante. On remarque aussi quelques griffures. Le tableau est sous une couche de vernis très sale, jaune et mat. Le tableau aurait besoin d’un nettoyage. Les empâtements du visage ont été joliment préservés. A la lampe U.V. : Le tableau apparaît sous un vernis ancien, épais et homogène. On remarque les restaurations préalablement mentionnées. Vendu dans un cadre en bois doré (petits manques). The actual painting is less red and a bit more yellow than the catalogue illustration would suggest. The painting seems to be in a fair condition. Under the naked eye : The single piece of oak panel has been gessoed on the reverse; this is partially damaged. Paint losses can be observed in the upper right corner, along the upper edge, along the left edge (visible in the catalogue illustration), smaller ones lower right; some are due to the dryness of the paint surface. Some of these losses have been crudely retouched. Some surface scratches can also be observed. The painted surface with a very dirty and yellowed matt varnish layer, and would greatly benefit from cleaning. Impastos of the man’s face appear to be nicely preserved. Under UV : The varnish layer fluoresces almost completely, but show some possible strengthenings of the contours and the paintlosses mentioned above. Offered with a giltwood frame, in fair condition (chips and damages).
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."