Neri di Bicci

Collection of the Marchesa Ridolfo Peruzzi dei Medici, Florence (according to a note in the 1943 Parke-Bernet sales catalogue);
Sale, New York, Parke-Bernet Galleries, 26 May 1943, lot 63;
Where acquired by Mrs. Jas Lewis;
With W.A. Smith Auctions, Plainfield, New Hampshire, according to a label on the reverse, after 1961;
Private family collection, and thence to the same's Estate. 

The following condition report has been provided by Simon Parkes of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc. 502 East 74th St. New York, NY 212-734-3920, simonparkes@msn.com , an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. This painting has not been restored for a number of years. The panel is flat. The original joins are stable although slightly visible, one running through the left side between the head of Christ and the figure of Joseph and what appears to be the other running through the head of Mary. Other cracking is visible here and there, but the panel is flat and stable, which in itself is an accomplishment. Very slight evidence of wood worm is visible in small isolated holes throughout the composition. The paint layer is very dirty yet does not appear to be over-cleaned and the freshness of the paint layer combined with the lack of any significant damage, shows the picture to be in very good state. There is no reinforcement on the reverse of the panel and the frame, although requiring some careful attention by a restorer, is similarly in very fresh condition; there is one large element at the base of the frame which remains missing. The picture requires some attention yet there is an opportunity to retain a good deal of the original patina and quality.
"This lot is offered for sale subject to Sotheby's Conditions of Business, which are available on request and printed in Sotheby's sale catalogues. The independent reports contained in this document are provided for prospective bidders' information only and without warranty by Sotheby's or the Seller."