Italian or Spanish, 15th century

Monsignor Alexandre Compans (d. 1926), Papal Chamberlain to Pope Pius IX and Pope Leo XIII, France;
by family descent to the present owners

Overall, the condition of the copper is good, with dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is particular dirt in the crevices. The surface of the copper has darkened and may once have been gilt. There are some losses to the copper, including to an area of the left arm at the back, to the bottom of the cross at the back, to the centre at the back where the two strips of copper overlap, to the sides of the bottom leave of the trefoil shape at the bottom of the cross, to the plaque with the bull, and to the top of the left leave of the trefoil on the left side. There is some rubbing to the copper at the high points, particularly to the bottom section at the front. There is some warping to the copper, in particular at the edges. There is some greening to the copper in areas, notably at the back. There is some white residue visible at the centre on the back.
"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."