Florentine School, 15th Century

The following condition report has been provided by Simon Parkes of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc. 502 East 74th St. New York, NY 212-734-3920, simonparkes@msn.com, an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. This work on panel has a visible crack that runs vertically through the center and another in the lower left through the Saint’s gown. The panel on the reverse has a horizontal grain, suggesting that perhaps the wood on the reverse is not related to the painted panel. Nonetheless, the paint layer is stable and the panel is flat. Although the varnish is dull, it can be seen that the work looks well. The condition of the hair and the halo are not altogether encouraging. Elsewhere the condition seems to be perfectly good, although there are presumably a few retouches in the face. A fresh varnish is recommended and there could perhaps be slight adjustments to only the existing restorations.
"This lot is offered for sale subject to Sotheby's Conditions of Business, which are available on request and printed in Sotheby's sale catalogues. The independent reports contained in this document are provided for prospective bidders' information only and without warranty by Sotheby's or the Seller."