Lot 14: GIROLAMO DI BENVENUTO | Madonna and Child with Saint John the Baptist and Saint Catherine

tempera on panel, gold ground

82.4 by 64.2 cm.; 32 1/2  by 25 1/4  in.

tempera on panel, gold ground

The following condition report is provided by Hamish Dewar who is an external specialist and not an employee of Sotheby's: Structural Condition The panel has two horizontal cross-batons on the reverse and framing fillets around the outer edges. There are several fine, vertical fracture lines, the majority of which appear to be historic, with the exception of one thin fracture line which runs down through the face of St. John. This fracture line is approximately 18 cm in from the left vertical edge and is a continuation of an earlier, historic fracture line which runs down from the upper horizontal edge. There are a number of worm holes. Paint surface The paint surface has dull and discoloured varnish layers and should respond very well to cleaning. It is most encouraging to note that the fine detail of the composition, especially the delicate flesh tones, appear remarkably well preserved. A number of slightly discoloured retouchings are visible in natural light, such as those on the Virgin's neck and jaw and on Her draperies. These retouchings are undoubtedly far larger than is really necessary and if removed during the cleaning process could be significantly reduced with more careful inpainting. There are various old, historic repairs to the gold ground. Inspection under ultraviolet light shows these and other earlier retouchings, which again appear excessive and could be significantly reduced. There are a number of retouchings identifiable under ultraviolet light on the Virgin's blue draperies and an area between her eyebrows. Summary The painting would therefore appear to be in essentially very good condition with the potential to be transformed by cleaning, restoration and revarnishing. The apparently remarkably well preserved details and flesh tones should be noted.
"This lot is offered for sale subject to Sotheby's Conditions of Business, which are available on request and printed in Sotheby's sale catalogues. The independent reports contained in this document are provided for prospective bidders' information only and without warranty by Sotheby's or the Seller."

Believed to have passed down by inheritance in the present owner's extended family since the late 19th century.