Sebastiano Ricci

The painting is warmer in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests. The canvas has a recent and effective relining. The paint surface is dirty and under a yellowed varnish. Localised losses can be made out in the Madonna's hair and Joseph's face as well as some retouched frame abrasion along the lower edges. Scattered discoloured retouchings can be made out in the legs, hands, in the face of Jesus. Some crude overpaint has been applied upper right and lower right. Inspection under UV light confirms the above and points to some further scattered retouchings, for example a small area in the Madonna's lips. Large parts of the canvas remain in dirty but good original condition. Offered in a carved wooden frame with some minor losses.
"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."

A similar composition, sold London, Christie’s, 28 April 1972, lot 89 is listed in Daniels¹ as being with the Appleby brothers in 1976.


1. See J. Daniels, Sebastiano Ricci, Hove 1976, cat. no. 181, p. 60, reproduced fig. 25.