Attributed to Francesco Raibolini, called Francesco Francia and Studio

With Newhouse Galleries, New York (as by Francia);
From whom purchased by the present owner in 1963.

Panel is cradled, flat and stable. there is generally good retention of the paint surface with nice detail in figures and landscape, and strong coloration. examination under ultraviolet light reveals an area of retouching on Virgin's face that runs from lower edge of her headdress down through left side of her face between left eye and nose, down left side of her mouth and down her neck. Christ has only a few tiny dots on face and torse, but has numerous small retouches to left leg, a few on right leg and some on right hand. other scattered small retouches in Virgin's drapery, mostly in blue mantle at left side. many of these retouches appear to be along the grain of wood. painting is presentable and could be hung in its present state. Offered in a gilt wood frame with a punchwork design. some losses to the gilding.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Another version of this composition, with slight variations to the landscape and foliage beyond, sold at Sotheby's London, 28 November 1956, lot 53.¹  Both that and the present painting are in turn variations on Francia's Madonna and Child holding a goldfinch with Saints Francis and Gerome in the Metropolitan Museum, New York (inv. no. 41.100.3).

This lot is accompanied by a letter to the owner from Dr. George M. Richter, dated April 26^th 1937, in which he ascribes the work to Francesco Francia in full.

1.  E. Negri and N. Roio, Francesco Francia e la sua scuola, Modena 1998, p. 173, reproduced fig. C.43.f.