SOUTH GERMAN SCHOOL, 15TH CENTURY | The Circumcision; The Presentation in the Temple

Circumcision: The panel is uncradled, flat and stable. The paint surface is relatively clean and the varnish is discoloured. There is a T-shaped crack in the paint surface in the centre of the panel cause by a knot in the wood. There are small visible retouchings scattered in the yellow robe of the figure on the right, in the white headdresses of the figures on the left, and in the altar. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals strengthening in the shadows of the red drapery on the left-hand side, in the red border of the headdress of the figure on the right and in his face, and in Christ’s halo . It also confirms the aforementioned retouchings through the altar and in the steps below, as well as in Christ’s proper right leg. Presentation: The panel has an old, repaired split supported by rectangular battens on the reverse which runs the length of the panel just left of centre, which has been retouched. There is a small, raised area of paint which is secure and has been retouched in the brickwork below the window, cause by a knot in the wood. Another small, vertical split in the panel approx. 15 cm. long is in the upper right-hand corner, also supported by a single block and retouched. Inspection under ultraviolet light confirms these retouchings along with: strengthenings in the shadows of all the red drapery, to small areas in the upper right and left-hand corners, as well as small areas in the Virgin’s blue robe.
"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."