Neri di Bicci

Anonymous sale, London, Sotheby's, 16 April 1980, lot 45, for £12,500.

The support appears to consist of a single panel cradled to the reverse. There are a number of old cracks in the panel, as evident in the paint surface, the two most notable of which run vertically down from the top margin, either side of then Virgin’s head a third of the length of the panel. Further radiated cracks are evident in the lower half of the painting running through the Christ child and there is an area of damage to the left hand side of his face of approx 4 by 3 cm. The paint surface is otherwise generally secure and in good condition. The details of the Virgin’s face are well preserved and the gold leaf appears to be generally original. The blues of the Virgin’s robes have degraded but the other pigments are better preserved. Old retouching work is visible to the naked eye along the aforementioned cracks and this is confirmed under UV light which also reveals retouching works to the lower half of the painting in the figure group and writing and in the aforementioned damage to the Christ Child's face. The face of the Virgin is largely untouched. Offered 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."