Details

Catalog summary

El Greco Saint James the Greater oil on canvas 27.4 x 21.9 cm.; 10 3/4  x 8 5/8  in. Condition The canvas is lined, the paint surface is dirty, and the varnish is discoloured and uneven. There are numerous losses and discoloured retouchings throughout, clearly visible in the catalogue illustration. Inspection under ultraviolet light does not reveal anything more than what is visible to the naked eye, and makes more obvious the restoration around the saint's eye, upper lip, and chin, as well as the unevenness of the varnish. In overall moderate condition. "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." Catalogue Note The present work is based on a painting by El Greco and his workshop from circa 1605–10 which depicts Saint James the Greater in three-quarter length, 1 and which forms part of an apostolate commissioned for the Toledo Cathedral. Another very similar St. James , from circa 1610–14 and also part of an apostolate, is today in the Museo del Greco, Toledo. 1 H.E. Wethey, El Greco and His School , Princeton 1962, vol. II , p. 103, cat. no. 162, reproduced vol. I, fig. 208.