Luca Longhi

The support consists of a single, stable panel cradled to the reverse. There are two old vertical cracks in the panel running up from the bottom edge, one of approx 15 cm and the other of approx 4 cm, both visible in the catalogue illustration. The paint surface is otherwise secure and appears to be in good condition under a somewhat dirty varnish. Inspection under UV light is impeded by the old varnish but some scattered old retouchings do fluoresce. Offered in a 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 pose of the Child repeats almost exactly that of the Infant in Girolamo Mazzola Bedoli' s Adoration of the Magi with Saint Benedict, in the Louvre, Paris, inv. no. 389 (see M. Di Giampaolo, Girolamo Bedoli 1500-1569, Florence 1997, p. 27, cat. no. 28, reproduced in colour p. 76).

We are grateful to Professor David Ekserdjian for proposing the attribution to Luca Longhi following first-hand inspection.