The panel is made up of a single, horizontal board which is flat and stable. It is beveled on the upper, lower and right-hand edges. The paint surface is clean beneath a fresh clear varnish and the painting appears to have been restored in the recent past and requires no further work. Inspection under ultraviolet light the reveals a number of retouched horizontal cracks, notably three running from the right hand edge, two running through the tablecloth and another running through the background figures behind the table. There is a further retouched damage through the sleeve of St. Joseph and more extensive retouching to the upper edge, left of center. There are minor retouches scattered throughout though these have been sensitively applied and are not apparent to the naked eye. The painting is ready to hang in its current state and is offered in a simply carved gilt wood frame.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.