Circle of Segna di Bonaventura

John Pope-Hennessey (as Segna di Bonaventura);
From whom passed to the present owner.

The following condition report has been provided by Karen Thomas of Thomas Art Conservation LLC., 336 West 37th Street, Suite 830, New York, NY 10018, 212-564-4024, info@thomasartconservation.com, an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. Although quite dirty, this painting is in good condition overall. For the most part, the painted region is quite well preserved, including the bulk of the garments, although the book held in Christ's arm is strongly rubbed. Losses are visible in the flesh tones, primarily in the left side of the face and the contours of the hand, revealing the greenish underpaint. Three areas of tenting are located near the perimeter, bottom and right. The gold ground is rubbed; in some areas the orange bole and the white ground are visible. The support, an unusually thick wood panel with engaged frame, is in good condition with old insect damage visible on the reverse. The picture is coated with a dense layer of dirt and aged varnish, darkening the tonality and flattening the appearance overall. This painting has the potential to look markedly better with cleaning and retouching. Cleaning is likely to significantly improve the hue and contrast, while restoration to bridge the gaps between the intact portions of the face, neck and hands, will improve the readability and general appearance.
"This lot is offered for sale subject to Sotheby's Conditions of Business, which are available on request and printed in Sotheby's sale catalogues. The independent reports contained in this document are provided for prospective bidders' information only and without warranty by Sotheby's or the Seller."