Anonymous, Mexican School (Early 18th Century)

Private Collection, Mexico

All works have been recently restored, cleaned and varnished. They are in stable condition and ready to hang. All 4 works have gilded oval frames probably of later date than the paintings. Juan Diego Kneeling to the Virgin of Guadalupe: The wood is convex. Three areas of in- painting are present in the sky to the left of the Virgin in addition to a three-inch vertical line of in-painting. There is a possible crack by the cactus on the lower right hand side. The Bishop kneeling in adoration of the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe: The wood is convex but stable. There is a nine-inch repaired crack starting from the right of the head to the bottom of the Virgin, otherwise this is in stable condition. Juan Diego with angels in background praying to the Virgin of Guadalupe: The wood is convex. There is a very small brown spotting in background. There have been two lines of in-fill, approximately two and a half- inches and 4 and a half-inches respectively, by Juan Diego's feet. The first apparition of the Virgin of Guadalupe to Juan Diego: The wood is convex. There are small areas of brown pigmentation under the varnish. A five-inch line of possible in-filling is present on the extreme right, almost under the frame. A possible three- inch vertical line of in-filling is visible from the top of the painting down to Virgin's shoulder.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This painting may be considered an artistic monument of Mexico and, if so, could not be exported without the approval of the Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia (INAH). Accordingly, it is offered for sale in New York from the catalogue and will not be available in New York for inspection or delivery. The painting will be released to the purchaser in Mexico in compliance with all local requirements. Prospective buyers may contact Sotheby's representatives in Mexico City and Monterrey for an appointment to view the work.