South Netherlandish School, circa 1510

The tone of the original is a touch yellower than it appears in the catalogue illustration. The support consists of a single, stable, flat panel. The paint surface is secure and in good condition, with many of the original details beautifully preserved under an old, discoloured varnish. There is an old surface scratch of approximately 3 cm running diagonally through the demon. Inspection under Ultraviolet light is somewhat hampered by the aforementioned varnish but some scattered old retouching work is discernible, most notably in the green underside of St. Michael's cloak. Offered in a modern painted 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."

This panel presumably formed the wing of a small portable triptych. The design ultimately goes back to Rogier van der Weyden. Unusually St. Michael is dressed in liturgical vestments and he uses a processional cross to attack the demon. The painter was possibly active in Bruges for it is likely that he was aware of Gerard David’s Saint Michael Altarpiece now in the Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna.¹ Digital infrared imaging shows free underdrawing and is available from the department.

1. M. Ainsworth, Gerard David, New York 1998, p. 174, fig. 168.