North Italian School, 17th Century

The support consists of a single vertical sheet of copper, which is largely flat though slightly bent along the upper margin. The blues and thinly applied browns of the painting are very slightly abraded, but the paint surface is otherwise in good condition with the other colours well-preserved. The paint surface is a little dirty and there is some old surface frame abrasion along the upper and left hand margins but no major damages to the work are apparent. Retouching work to the shading of Mary's blue skirt is apparent to the naked eye. Inspection under UV light confirms this retouching work and further reveals some scattered spot retouchings to the figures, background and along the upper margin. Offered in a gilt wood and plaster frame in fair 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."