Anonymous, Mexican School (Late 18th Century)

Private Collection, Mexico

Both works have massive gilded baroque frames with rubbing, losses and, cracks consistent with their age. Both of the paintings would greatly benefit from cleaning and restoration. Both paintings exhibit dirt and craquelure. San Miguel Arcángel: Paint loss and heavy craquelure is present in the upper quadrant and near the head of the cherub. There are also lines of paint loss to the right of the staff and on center of the lower edge. Small scattered spots of white paint, not inherent to the work, are visible on the left side of the painting as well as liquid staining on the cherub. San Gabriel Arcángel: San Gabriel, like its pair, has a dirty surface. The canvas is undulating. This work would benefit from conservation and remounting. There is a one and a half-inch cut in the stretcher and on the canvas on top center of composition. Areas of paint loss are present, specifically variable one to two inch areas along the right edge. A large area of craquelure, measuring approximately is visible in the background of the lower right quadrant. There is a 2 inch cut in the canvas on the lower left edge. Whitening of canvas on most edges is apparent as well as a one and a quarter –inch area of area of abrasion on the hand of the angel.
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.

These paintings 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.