Follower of Hugo van der Goes

The picture is richer in colour and fresher in tone than the catalogue illustration would suggest. Painted on a flat stable single bevelled panel with one baton support along the lower centre and two smaller corner suppers on the lower edge. The paint surface is in good overall condition with no apparent damage or loss of paint visible to the naked eye except for a minor paint loss to the panel edge centre right to an old repaired horizontal split running the length of the panel along the grain, as can be seen in the catalogue illustration. This corresponds with the baton affixed to the reverse. There are a further three very old minor stable horizontal splits, the first in the upper left running through the headdress of the man, measuring approx. 6 in., a further split through the head and sternum of Christ measuring approx. 11 in., and finally a smaller split in the lower left running through the hilt of the sword measuring approx. 4 in. There is also a minor old surface scratch in the upper right in the woman's neck. Overall, given the painting's age, the paint surface appears ot be in good structural condition. There is evidence of a discoloured varnish and surface dirt overall and the varnish has crazed very slightly in the lower left. Examination under ultraviolet confirms the presence of this mottled varnish as well as minor retouching to the aforementioned splits. There is also evidence of very minor scattered flecks of cosmetic retouching primarily to the fleshtones as well as some strengthening to the darker pigments, again very minor. Despite the varnish impeding proper inspection, the picture appears to be in good original condition. Offered in a plain wood frame embellished with gilt. There are minor losses to the gilt and and evidence of old woodworm.
"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."

A copy after Van der Goes's lost original which is known through a number of period copies, the most famous being that in the Museo di Capodimonte, Naples (see. M. J. Friedlander, Early Netherlandish Painting, vol. IV, Leiden 1969, pp. 72-3, cat. no. 23, reproduced plates 36-7).