German School, early 18th century

The painting appears to be upon a canvas support laid on to panel, with the exception of the left hand margin, where it is oil on panel only. The panel has now been laid down on to a more modern support and has been cleaned and restored. There is an old vertical join or split in the panel running up from the bottom edge just to the right of the medallion as far as the heads, and another rising about 6 cm from the bottom edge in the lower left hand corner. A section of the upper left corner is also damaged and the panel's edges generally a little irregular. The canvas has not adhered to the panel in some parts, leaving small raised pockets in two of the central heads and two more in the upper right hand corner. These have been restored. Inspection under ultra violet light reveals scattered retouchings across the picture but no serious damages. There are a series of four old restored losses of 1 x 1 cm on the hind legs and rear of the monster, and the lowest man's head and the hair of the man on the far right have been restored. The varnish remains shiny and even. This lot is offered in a modern parcel gilt faux veneer and red velvet frame, some minor losses
"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."