South German School, second half of the 15th century

Probably, anonymous sale, Cologne, Lempertz, 18-20 March 1937, lot 852.

The panel is stable and uncradled, with a series of supportive blocks adhered to the reverse that support old vertical cracks, mostly in the left-hand side of the panel, but which are not overtly visible from the front. The paint surface is stable and slightly dirty. The varnish is clear and even. There are no major damages visible to the naked eye, bar the aforementioned series of vertical cracks, visible only on close inspection. The most visible is a very faint and unobtrusive crack starting at the bottom of the panel circa 17 cm. in from the left edge, which runs up the panel and through Gabriel. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals a handful of small retouchings throughout, the main concentration of which are in the red of Gabriel's cape, and strengthenings throughout the architectural features of the background. The gold of the angel's banderole is likely later. In overall 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."

When offered for sale in Cologne in 1937, the appearance of the wings of the Angel Annunciate were marginally different, suggesting some more recent alterations.