Lot 211: PETER OLIVER | The Rest on the Flight into Egypt

Watercolour and gold on vellum, laid down on panel

155 by 241 mm

Watercolour and gold on vellum, laid down on panel

Although many of the watercolour pigments in this work have remained well preserved, some have faded. The red pigment in the Virgin's cloths and her and Christ's flesh tones, are two such places. There are several areas where the pigment has been lost, most noticeable in the upper centre (in the sky) and a small area at the extreme right hand edge of the vellum. The edges are, in general, rubbed and in the lower right hand corner there is a repair tear. In a raking light, it is possible to see that their are areas that have been rubbed. For its age, circa 1628, the work is well preserved.
"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."

London, Philip Mould and Company, Secret Faces, 2008, no. 13

Possibly commissioned by King Charles I (1600-1649);
Possibly King Charles II (1630-1685);
Baron Hirsch, Vienna, 1896, according to a (now lost) old label;
Ralph Cross-Jackson, London, according to a (now lost) old label