Cecco di Pietro

Acquired by the late husband of the present owner.

M. Lucco in I. Consigli ed., Opere d'arte da una collezione privata, Parma 1993, pp. 24-26, reproduced in colour.

The colours are slightly more muted and the fleshtones are less yelow than the catalogue illustration would suggest. Painted on a flat stable panel with old wood worm damage apparent on the reverse. The paint surface is in good overall condition given the paintings age. Some of the gold has been abraided revealing a red preparatory ground as can be seen in the catalogue illustration. There are minor losses at the panel edges as can again be seen in the catalogue illustration and there appears to be a small nail hole lower right. The principle parts of the painting appear to be in good overall condition but for a yellow varnish and surface dirt. There is a small old diagonal surface scratch measuring approx 2 in. in Christ's torso as can be seen in the catlaogue. Examination under ultraviolet confirms the presence of the varnish and reveals some very minor cosmetic flecks of scattered retouching such as to the Virgin's cope and to an old curved surface scratch in Christ's torso measuring 1 in. This lot is 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."