Indo-Portuguese, Sri Lanka, 17th century

with a label on the reverse of the frame inscribed: 221 / veiling  oom... / S.W.J.JiTTA

S. W. Josephus Jitta;
his sale, Frederick Muller & Co. Amsterdam, 9-11 November 1897;
there acquired by his family;
thence by descent to the present owner

Overall the condition of the ivory is good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are some losses to the gilding and polychromy. There is particular dirt in the crevices. There are a few light scratches, including to Christ's leg. There is some very minor stable hairline splitting consistent with the material, including to the top right corner. The frame is in good condition with some dirt and wear, including slightly open but stable joints in the wood. There is fraying and some losses to the red velvet. The inside of the frame is slightly loose. The frame is covered with cloth at the back, which has become loose in areas.
"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."

RELATED LITERATURE
B. Ferrao de Tavares e Tavora, Imaginaria Luso-Oriental, Lisbon, 1983, p. 126