Stefano Novo (Italian, 1862-1927) An amusing story Oil on canvas 19-3/4 x 29-1/2 inches (50.2 x 74.9 cm) Signed lower left: Stefano Novo PROVENANCE: Bonhams, London, April 5, 1979, lot 188; Sotheby's, London, October 27, 1993, lot 207; Private collection, Chicago, Illinois. HID12401132022 © 2024 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved

Bonhams, London, April 5, 1979, lot 188; Sotheby's, London, October 27, 1993, lot 207; Private collection, Chicago, Illinois.

Lined canvas. A very few instances of minor frame abrasion at edges. A vertical line, possibly a seam, faintly visible under raking light just right of center, extending down into the picture plane from the upper edge. Very slight yellowing to the varnish layer. Scattered instances of very faint, finely patterned craquelure. A very few scattered pinpoint dots of accretion and minor surface abrasion. Minor surface dust. Not examined out of frame due to size. Under UV: varnish fluoresces green unevenly and appears to have been removed in some areas. Some brushy retouching to edges and to the darkest tones of the curtains at left. Additional scattered instances of more finely applied strengthening to some of the pink pigments. Framed Dimensions 29.75 X 39.5 X 3.5 Inches