Castilian School, Circa 1500

Private collection, Madrid, by 1989.

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. This painting is structurally sound and in fair condition overall. Widespread flaking is visible across the surface and the picture is coated with a significant accumulation of dirt, grime and discolored varnish. Broad retouching is found in several locations, including the bottom corners, the rock formation, and the white horse. Otherwise the painting appears to have undergone very little intervention. The wood panel support is comprised of four vertically grained boards and retains its original crossbars on the reverse. Small planar deformations on the face of the painting are related to the original construction of the panel, where nails were driven through the front into the crossbars on the back. The frame is not original to the painting although both appear to be of the same time period. Flaking paint should be consolidated to prevent further losses from developing. Cleaning can be expected to have a significant positive impact on the appearance, which along with compensation for losses would improve the legibility of the composition.
"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."