Attributed to Jacob van Oost

The catalogue illustration is representative for the actual painting. The canvas appears to be unlined. There's a small hole of approx. 1.5 by 15. cm. upper centre and a a patched restored hole upper right. The paint surface is under a very dirty varnish. There is fine craquelure throughout which is beginning to lift in some areas and there are some small scattered losses. The paint is quite thin in the Virgin's blue cloak. There are some minor discoloured retouchings to the background. Inspection under UV light is inconclusive due to the varnish. Offered in black and parcel gilt wood and plaster frame in fair 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."

The head of the Madonna can be compared to the artist's treatment of Our Lady in the altarpiece of the Adoration of the Shepherds in the Church of Saint Salvator, Bruges.¹

1. See J.L. Meulemeester, Jacob van Oost de Oudere en het zeventiende-eeuwse Brugge, Bruges 1984, pp. 156, 262, cat. no. A17, reproduced p. 157, fig. 131.