Netherlandish School, circa 1515-1520

In the collection of a South German noble family for probably the last four generations;
By descent to the present owner.

It is rare that a Tüchlein survives of this size. The canvas has been relined, and there are a large number of discoloured repairs to tears and holes visible to the naked eye, all of varying sizes. The largest are: upper left corner, measuring approximately. 10 x 4 cm.; two repairs in the lower left, the first 5 x 14 cm., the second measuring 7 x 16 cm.; another mid-left margin, measuring 10 x 13 cm.; an area in the extreme lower right corner measuring 35 cm.; and lastly a repair to the right of Christ, measuring 5 x 3 cm. There are smaller repairs in the upper right corner, all damages are visible in raking light and have a different surface texture to the rest of the canvas. The paint surface is very worn in places, especially in the background and in the thief on the right. There are other areas where the quality of workmanship and creativity is still very discernible: for example the magnificent fabric of Mary Magdalen's dress, the two boys' dress, and the faces of the all the main figures, in the posture and expression of Christ and the two thieves. Inspection under ultraviolet light shows the aforementioned damages It also shows a small area of repair in the shoulder and hip of the boy lower left; to the area in front of Mary Magdalen's face and to the right of her waist, and a network of small tears situated in the centre of the Virgin's dress. There has been restoration carried out to about 10 very small horizontal lines which run across the centre of the Tüchlein (perhaps where it was once folded); and other scattered small old tears and holes in the delicate material. This lot is offered in a plain wood frame with gilt sight edge, with some thinning of paint, but otherwise in good condition.
"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."