Emilian School, 17th Century

The canvas is unlined and has a vertical seam (or join) running approx. 6cm. from the right edge. Two small repaired damages were patched on the reverse (these patches have since been removed): one of these occurs just above Joseph's head, and the other just to the extreme right of his beard. The paint surface has been recently cleaned to reveal the vivacious brushwork, particularly admirable on the figures' heads (especially that of Joseph). The paint was confidently applied and its sketch-like quality suggests that the painting may even be unfinished, as does the blue pigment in the veil of the Madonna which, though perhaps faded in time, does seem to have been merely sketched in. Inspection under ultra-violet reveals remarkably few interventions: only the tiny repaired damages mentioned above, and some retouchings on and around the canvas seam as well as some minor touching-out on the Madonna's blue robe lower right. It is not impossible that the canvas seam is, in fact, a join and that the original canvas was extended slightly to include more of the Madonna's blue robe. This would have been done by the artist himself and the alteration may reflect a 'work in progress'. The cassetta frame is gilded along the outer and inner edges and painted in faux marbling inbetween. It appears to be old and may even be original with the painting: it is in remarkably good condition if the latter is true.
"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."