Follower of Fra Bartolommeo

The Hon. Earl of Lucan, Laleham House, Middlesex (according to a label on the reverse).

The actual painting is warmer in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests. The panel seems to consist of three planks joined vertically, and is reinforced to the reverse with two horizontal strips of wood, because of some vertical cracks in the panel. Furthermore, the panel is enlarged with thin strips of wood to fit the frame. The paint surface is in good condition, apart from a few tiny paint losses in the lower centre. The paint surface is under a dirty varnish layer. There's a minor tendency towards flaking in certain areas along the grains. A few small retouchings can be observed throughout, and some larger ones are visible in the legs of the Christ child, and, in the face of the child on the left. This is confirmed by UV light. Offered in a decorative gilt plaster and wood frame, with a few losses. Offered with two 20th Century paintings after Raphael, both canvas laid down on board. Both with minor paint losses along the edges. Both paint surfaces are under a dirty varnish layer and have a very coarse craquelure pattern. Inspection under UV light is impeded by the thick varnish layer. Offered in plan parcel gilt frames with gold painted decorations, with some damages. (ML/MW)
"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."

Bears a wax seal on the reverse with the coat-of-arms and motto of the Lucan family: Spes mea Christus (Christ is my hope).

Offered together with two paintings on canvas of a Madonna and Child, with Saint Elizabeth and Saint John the Baptist, and a Madonna and Child with Saint John the Baptist between classical ruins, after Raphael, of which the originals are in the Musée du Louvre, Paris.