Antwerp School, 16th Century

The single panel support has a slight bow but appears stable. The paint surface is dirty and under a discoloured varnish but appears secure. The catalogue illustration gives a good impression of the painting's condition: some surface scuffs are present in the Madonna's cloak, lower left and upper right. Some discoloured retouchings can be made out with the naked eye in the red cloak and in the blue shirt and along some craquelure in the Child's body. Inspection under UV light reveals retouchings in the darker tones of the blue mantle, in the shadow lower right and in the background upper right. The painting would benefit from a clean and for the retouchings to be removed and reapplied. Offered in a modern plain wooden 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."