Bernardo di Stefano Rosselli

The painting is warmer in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests. The panel support has begun to bow. The paint surface has begun to crack along the panel joins lower left and lower right ans is under a discoloured varnish. The paint surface has some fine craquelure in the sky but otherwise appears to the naked eye to be in good if dirty condition. A few small discoloured patches of retouching can be made out in the Madonna's cloak as well as a retouched scratch of 7 cm lower right. A small restored paint loss above the Madonna's left hand is present. Insection under UV light reveals only minor scattered retouchings, suggesting that the paint surface is generally in dirty but good condition and is for the most part untouched. However, the glossy varnish does not allow for the whole paint surface to be thoroughly inspected and some older retouchings are likely. The work is offered in an engaged frame which has a crack upper centre and has suffered some other knocks.
"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 attribution has been endorsed by Everett Fahy, to whom we are grateful.