The Master with the Parrot

Madrid, Centro Cultural del Conde Duque, La Navidad en el Arte (Siglos XVI–XIX), 14 December 1989 – 14 January 1990, no. 9.

J. Gallego, 'La navidad en el arte', in Diario ABC de las Artes, 21 December 1989, p. 127.

The panel is uncradled and bevelled on all four sides. It has a slight convex curve and split down the centre which has been stabilised with a thin strip of canvas affixed to the reverse. The split has been restored but is slightly discoloured and is still visible with the naked eye, albeit subtely. The paint surface is secure and protected by a thick varnish. There is a crispness in the thick impasto of the sleeve and hands. The tranluscent fleshtones are well- preserved, contrasting with the rich green and reds of the draperies and against the plunging dark background. There are pentimenti visible in the Virgin's headdress and in the Child's hands. The thick varnish makes viewing under UV light difficult but what does show up are two small (less than 1x1 cm) restorations, one just above the Virgin's head and another in her forearm. With the naked eye it seems that there may be some very old, very small restorations in the fleshtones, along the wood grain, that have slightly yellowed through age, but are not obstructive to the overall softness of the figures' faces.
"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 Child in deep slumber upon his mother's breast is a motif not often found in the œuvre of the group of artists known under the name of the 'Master with the Parrot'. Another example was sold Paris, Tajan, 19 December 2001, lot 23. The Virgin's facial features, set low down on her face, the crescent brow and lowered eyelids, small lips and defined nose, are unique to this hand.