Baptism of Christ, Moscow, 17th century

showing Christ in the centre standing in the River Jordan, making a sign of blessing with his right hand, John the Forerunner standing on the left baptizing Christ, three angels standing on the other bank, their hands veiled in reverence, God the Father in a segment of heaven in the upper part, from which descends the Holy Spirit, depicted as a dove

The icon covered with darkened varnish and dirt. A vertical crack running through the panel from top to bottom. Some wear and some retouching. The original, diminished, panel mounted on to a new panel during a later period. The background and border stripped to the ghesso.
"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."