Studio of Adriaen Isenbrant

With Jacques Ollier, Galerie de l’Ecaille, Louvre des Antiquaires, Paris;
Acquired from the above by the parents of the present owners.

The panel is flat and cradled. There is a vertical split in the wood, beginning 12 cm. in from the upper left margin and ending 15.5 cm. in from the lower left margin. The paint surface is in overall fine condition. The colours are rich, the details of the Virgin's hair are very well-preserved, and there are delicate lines of under-drawing visible around the face. There are a few small instances of paint beginning to lift from the surface, noticeable under raking light. Inspection under Ultraviolet light shows re strengthening to the painted wooden niche in the background, small re-touchings to the Virgin's cheek and neck, to the Christ child's forehead, to the drapery of both figures. Offered in a stained Dutch style frame with tortoiseshell (?) details.
"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."

Adriaen Isenbrant interpreted the subject of the Virgin and Child in various poses throughout his career. Here, the figures are taken directly from the central panel of the triptych by Isenbrant showing the Madonna with St. John the Baptist and St. Jerome, now at the Groenigen Museum in Bruges.

Another, slightly smaller, composition of the Virgin and Child by the workshop of Isenbrant was sold in these Rooms, 9 July 2009, lot 102, for £40,000.