Matthias Gerung

In the collection of the family of the present owner for at least two generations.

The panel is uncradled, flat and stable. The paint surface is relatively clean and the varnish is uneven and slightly discoloured. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals strengthening to the dark folds in the sitter's dress, the highlighted folds in her transparent veil, and the darker folds of her headdress. The upper segments of her fingers have been retouched, and there is also retouching in the side of her neck around the base of her headdress and below the curve of her jawline. There are also small retouchings along the upper left margin and in the upper right corner. 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."

Matthias Gerung, who belongs to the second generation of German Renaissance painters, was probably born in Nördlingen around 1500, and certainly trained there under Hans Schäufelein, Dürer's principal pupil. By 1525, the date of this picture, he had settled in Lauingen, a Bavarian city on the banks of the River Danube in the Duchy of Neuburg. His major patron was Otto Heinrich, the protestant Elector Palatine of the Rhine.

This picture may well be his earliest dated work.