Antonio del Ceraiuolo

In overall very good condition. The panel is supported by two horizontal batons, and is slightly bowed. The paint surface is slightly dirty, but the colours are bright and well-preserved and the varnish is clear and even. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals sparse, small retouchings, including in the Madonna's forehead and in the flesh tones of the children, as well as scattered in Her robes and in the background. Offered in a plain gilt and painted wood frame with some losses.
"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."

The artist of this well preserved Renaissance panel was a pupil of Lorenzo di Credi and subsequently of Ridolfo Ghirlandaio. A very similar painting, clearly based on the same cartoon, differs in the details of the landscape and is in the Cincinnati Art Museum. A less ornate version, in which the Christ Child is shown clothed, was sold in these Rooms, 22 May 1968, lot 97.