The Nativity, Greece, Ionian Islands, second half 17th century

At the centre of a rocky landscape the Mother of God kneeling at the entrance to a cave in front of the Christ Child lying in a manger, with an ass and a mule bending over Him, above a group of five angels, two of them holding a band with an inscription in Greek glorifying God, in the upper left the three Magi on horseback, in the upper right an angel announcing the birth to a shepherd, another shepherd playing a flute sitting on a rock near the cave of the Nativity a flock of sheep in front of him, in the lower part the meeting of Joseph with the aged shepherd carrying a sheep on his shoulders

In general good condition consistent with age
"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 icon has been painted in great detail by a skilled and experienced master. The technical perfection and the interesting iconography of the Nativity scene incorporating elements from western iconography point in the direction of the famous icon painter Theodoros Poulakis (1622-1692), who was born in Crete and spent the last 17 years of his life in Corfu. The specific style of painting the faces and the elaborate and detailed execution of the garments is typical for the style of Poulakis.