An Italian gilt and painted stucco relief of the Madonna and Child, after the style of Desiderio da Settignano (circa 1430-1464)

Stefano Bardini, Florence
Walter and Catalina von Pannwitz, Berlin and Heemstede, acquired from the above in 1913

Chipping and surface abrasions throughout. Flaking and losses to paint. Some paint refreshed. Repaired cracks include: top right corner; a diagonal crack from top right corner to lower left corner; two cracks through body of the Child. Restoration throughout and some consolidation to background. Chipping, worming, losses, and abrasions to frame, which is composed of some early elements.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This is one of several painted stucco variants of the composition seen in a 15th century marble relief in the style of Desiderio da Settignano in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London (no. 66-1866), which is also represented in paintings from the workshop of Neri di Bicci (1419-1491).  Some of the stucco versions may be cast (or 'squeezed') from the London marble, although the relationship between the marble and the stucco versions is problematic and all may be based upon a lost original.

RELATED LITERATURE

John Pope-Hennessey, Catalogue of Italian Sculpture in the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, 1964, vol. I, pp. 142-143