Jacopo Negretti, called Palma Il Giovane

Private collection, Italy, for at least 50 years.

The canvas has an old but quite heavy relining and the paint surface is now a little flat. The picture has more recently been cleaned and restored. There are two old repaired tears of significance: one 10 cm vertical tear running down through the face of the Madonna, and another of 20 cm running parallel to the bottom edge in Christ's loincloth. Inspection under ultra violet reveals restoration to both of these as well as to Christ's forearm and chest. The robe, face and hands of the Madonna have largely been repainted, as has the background. The other figures are generally well preserved, although the flesh tones have worn thin in parts. This lot is offered with a later plain gilt and painted wood frame.
"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."

We are grateful to Dott.ssa Stefania Mason Rinaldi for endorsing the attribution on the basis of a photograph and for dating the work to the 1610s.