Italian, probably Lombardy, late 15th/ early 16th century

indistinctly inscribed: D D on the glass; with labels numbered: 1 and 684 on the underside

Werner Weisbach, Basel;
with Galerie Schulthess, Basel, 1955;
private collection, Switzerland;
and thence by family descent

Overall the condition of the pax is good with dirt and some wear to the surface consistent with age and handling. There is wear to the gilding and tarnishing throughout the frame. There are losses to the enamel at the cherub's right wing and the right spandrel. A plaque or enamel was possibly lost from the lower frieze. The lower edge has some warping. The painting is discoloured at the perezonium and there seems to be some wear to the incarnate. The wood base has some stable minor splitting to the right side consistent with material.
"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."

This rare verre églomisé pax compares with another Italian 15th-century example sold in these rooms on 10 March 1983, lot 64. Verre églomisé is the technique whereby an image is created by gilding the reverse of a glass panel. In the present Renaissance example, colours have been added to enliven the scene.