Follower of Filippo Lippi

Tempera on panel, rounded top

The catalogue illustration is too blue in tone. The panel support appears flat and stable, but there are some old stress fractures in evidence in particular a vertical crack running from the top edge of the panel running down through the cheek of the Virgin and down to the bottom edge. There is a similar but smaller 10 cm old crack which runs in parallel and to the left of this down from the top edge. The panel has now been cleaned and restored and the cracks filled. Overall the paint surface is in reasonable condition but now covered with a thick matt varnish. Inspection under ultra violet light reveals fairly recent repairs to the cheek and neck of the Virgin and to the area around the old split including both her hands and red drapery. Her facial features have been gently strengthened as has the hair of the Christ child. The varnish layer prevents closer scrutiny and a degree of older restoration which should probably also be allowed for. The Renaissance style frame is later date and in generally good order although much of its painted colour has been restored.
"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."

Tempera on panel, rounded top, within a carved giltwood and blue painted frame, the arched frame with an anthemion carved cresting with stylised demi-anthemia on the sides terminating in a roundel enclosing a flowerhead, above a tapering shaped apron, the whole decorated with scrolling foliage in gilt on a blue ground