18th century oil on canvas portrait of Pope Paul III (Alessandro Farnese), after the original by Titian, follower of Paris Bordone (Italian,1500-1571). The 3/4 length portrait depicts the Pope dressed in white and a crimson gilt trimmed robe, sitting on a chair of crimson velvet; a ring is on the finger of his right hand which is resting on a bag of the same colored velvet. Unsigned. Nameplate with title and an attribution believed to be false affixed on lower center of frame. Housed in a Louis XVI style gilt carved frame. Sight: 13 3/4" H x 10 1/2" W. Framed: 22" H x 19" W.

PROVENANCE: The Collection of Karen Wentz, Knoxville, Tennessee.

CONDITION: Painting was professionally cleaned and conserved in 1997. Prior extensive conservation was noted at that time. Re-streched with an old relining, scattered touch-up, including lower area of white robe and right side of face, and revarnished. Old craquelure throughout, canvas is brittle.