Follower of Antonio Allegri, called Correggio

Baron Maximilian Speck von Sternberg (1776-1856) by whose descendants given to the present owner.

Probably Specksche Gemälde-Sammlung in Leipzig, Leipzig 1827, p. 18, no. 67;
Probably Sammlung Freiherr von Speck zu Sternberg, 1889, p. 2, no. 15;
Probably H. Guratzsch, Maximilian Speck von Sternburg: ein Europäer der Goethezeit als Kunstsammler, exhibition catalogue, Leipzig 1998, p. 465.

 

The panel is thick and has a convex bow. There is a restored vertical surface crack that runs through the left half of Christ's face from the upper margin, stopping at his chin. There is a vertical line of old restorations that runs through his hair at the left and a few small restored paint losses, for example to the right of his mouth. The paint surface is generally very well preserved and is covered by a layer of dirt and dirty varnish.
"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."

A 16th-century copy after Correggio's original in the Getty Museum, Los Angeles, inv. no. 94.PB.74 (see L. Fornari Schianchi, Correggio, exh. cat. Parma 2008, p. 307, cat. no.III.5, reproduced in colour plate 256).