Samson and Delilah

The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.

We are grateful to Simon Parkes Conservation Inc. for preparing the following condition report (written communication 2 December 2022):

This work is still installed in what appears to be its original frame. The canvas has a wax lining, which is not ideal but is stabilizing the paint layer nonetheless. This lining can easily be reversed if necessary. The painting does not appear to have been recently cleaned. Still, it is in generally excellent condition.

Retouches have been applied to two cracks in the neck of the bearded figure in the center. Retouches can also be seen in his dark blue gown, where they address a few cracks on the left side of his torso, another group of cracks to the immediate right of the seated figure, and a few other spots in the lower right corner of the gown. A few retouches have been added in the neck of the child in the lower right. There is a spot of retouching addressing a small loss in the golden gown to the right of this child. A few cracks have been retouched in the deep red gown in the lower left to the left of the bare leg. Retouches have been applied to a crack that runs horizontally through the arms of the figure in white, as well as to a few other cracks in her arms and another crack at the top of her right leg.

Almost all of the retouches address thin cracks to the paint layer, which are to be expected. There are no signs of abrasion or weakness to any of the colors or glazes. This work is in extraordinary condition and should be hung as is.