South Netherlandish School, probably Antwerp, circa 1525

The original support consists of a single flat panel. This has been marouflaged and extended by about 3.4 cm. along the upper margin. The join between the original panel and this extension is faintly visible on the paint surface, which is clean and in largely good condition. There is an area of paint loss of approximately 7 by 2cm. to the centre of the left hand margin, and a line of paint loss, approximately 8cm. in length, parallel to this. There are two further flecks of paint loss approximately a centimetre above these areas. There is furthermore some paint loss along a split to the left hand side of the the panel, which runs vertically from the lower margin for approximately 30cm. Two further cracks, each approximately 10cm. long are also visible to the naked eye. The first runs from the upper margin of the original, unextended panel to the man's cheek, and the second starts just to the right of this and runs to the man's chest. Some frame abrasion, particularly along the upper edge, as well as some areas of retouchings, particularly along the centre of the right hand margin and to an old circular damage of approximately 2cm2 on the donor's right hand sleeve, are visible to the naked eye. Inspection under UV light confirms these retouchings and further reveals extensive, scattered retouchings to the remainder of the painting, though the donors hands seem to remain untouched. Offered in a black painted and gilt wood 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."

Formerly attributed to Hans Suess von Kulmbach and to Joos van Cleve, this panel very probably originally formed part of the left hand wing of a triptych.