Circle of Ambrosius Benson

The triptych is now very dirty and all three panels covered in thick discoloured and slightly bitumenous varnish. The central panel has been thinned and marouflaged on to three supporting panels behind, presumably to try and stabilise the panel, which has developed a number of cracks and splits from this or previous stresses; these extend for example on the left side up to the head of the man in a turban, from the top edge down to the arms of St John,and again on the right down to the Magdalene, and from the lower edge up the Virgin's shoulder. These splits are all now open and visible to the naked eye and show signs of continued movement. The left hand panel has an old split running from the bottom edge up through the shoulder of the weeping woman almost to the top edge. The paint surface is all three panels appears to be in relatively good condition, with most fine details presrved intact. There has been some old repair to the heads and landscape background in both of the wings, and this fluoresces under ultra-violet light. The three panels are framed in a later (19th century or later) gitl and painted frame in good overall 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."

Benson painted multiple versions on the theme of the central panel, all slightly different. This example of the composition, by a close follower of the artist, seems to be unique. Other treatments of the subject include the painting sold London, Christie's, 24 April 1998, lot 27, the painting formerly in the collection of Edmund Noel, sold Paris, 27 May 1924, lot 1 and lastly the work sold London, Sotheby's 7 July 1976, lot 53.