Follower of Jacob de Backer

In the collection of the family of the present owners since the early 1970s.

The canvas has an old relining. To the naked eye there are some discoloured retouchings visible, on Christ's right leg, some fleck retouchings on the grey fabric in the backgroud of the right hand side. A horizontal line spanning across the composition through the middle is visible as an unevenness on the surface of the canvas, but has been repaired. Otherwise, the paint surface is flat, and there are no signs of flaking or lost paint, and it is an impressive work to look at. Inspection under UV light is impeded by an uneven varnish. However, it shows small scattered retouchings throughout the background and newer scattered retouchings on the drapery at the lower part of the canvas as well as strengthening of the red cloak on the right. There are signs of much older restoration in the women's faces. The brown drapery has faded and partially lost the effect of modelling. Tehre are several reparied tears: one above the child's head on the upper right, another on teh cross, and a third to the right of the central figure's head. A small tear has also been repaired above the hand of the figure on the furthermost left side. This lot is offered in a gilt frame, with mouldings showing four masks on each side. Some gilding has chipped off, but structurally the frame is sound.
"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."