Flemish School, 16th Century

In the collection of the family of the present owners for at least five generations.

The pair are each made up of two vertical panels. The first has two vertical wooden bars across the join to support it. Both works are flat and in stable condition. The first has two fine splits in the wood reaching all the way down the panel vertically, one on the left panel and one near the centre. There are so fine they hardly are noticeable. The second of the pair has a split in the join between the two panels where the paint has come away and some white ground is visible. In the second of the pair there is a small crack in the paint surface lower right corner, stable and not in danger of lifting completely from the panel surface. The vanish on both works is very dirty and the colurs would benefit greatly from a gentle cleaning. The softness of the angels' lips and the flowing fabric of their robes are still discernible and very effective, despite the varnish. Details of the curls in the angel's hair and the decoration of the censers are also very lovely. There is craquelure throughout and a number of tiny knocks to the paint surface, all of which are old and dirty and thus blend in with the overall color scheme. The graceful movement and lightness of these two angels make them a magnificent pair. They are both offered in matching architectural giltwood frames, very decorative and with an elegant cornice in the upper part.
"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."