L13113

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Lot 656
  • 656

Baptism, Greece, circa 1700

Estimate
15,000 - 20,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • tempera on wood
  • 68 by 51.2cm, 26 3/4 by 20 1/8 in.
Christ standing in frontal position in the River Jordan between swimming fish and two river gods, snakes or dragons appearing from below His feet in an allusion to Psalm 73:13: "You divided the sea by your might: you broke the heads of the dragons in the waters", John the Baptist to the left, four angels with veiled hands to the right, the Holy Spirit appearing as a dove, descending from a segment of heaven, on the left  the prophet Isaia appearing behind the rocks, holding an open scroll

Exhibited

Exhibition catalogue, Golden Light: Masterpieces of the Art of the Icon, Koninklijk Museum Voor Schone Kunsten Antwerpen, Belgium 1988, p.112, n.83

Condition

Some damage to the levkas and gold ground along the border of the icon, some minor retouching to the painting, some minor damage due to wood worm, overall very good condition
"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."