Follower of Leonardo da Vinci

The panel support is stable with a very slight convex bow, and appears to have been thinned and cut down from a larger format. The bottom edge is pierced by three old nail holes, probably the result of earlier mounting. There are associated areas of paint loss around these and along the lower edge on the left hand side, and again along the left hand edge to about 11 cm from the bottom. There are numerous small losses in the upper part of the painting just above Christ's head. The top right hand corner has been chipped. The painting itself is now very dirty and covered in an old discoloured layer of varnish. The paint surface is in fairly good overall condition. Inspection under ultra violet light is impeded by this varnish, but a good degree of old restoration is visible, especially in the background, to the edges of Christ's hair and beard and to the shadows of his red tunic. The flesh tones of the face and neck have a good many smaller and more careful retouchings, but the first two fingers, thumb, wrist and palm of the left hand have been clumsily repainted. The old restoration has now discoloured and is visible to the naked eye. This lot is sold unframed.
"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."