THE ALZIRA MASTER | The Holy Family with Saint John the Baptist

In the collection of the family of the present owner for at least 60 years.

The circular panel is formed of two vertical planks, with the join supported by two inlaid butterfly battens and two horizontal battens - these are affixed with nails which have become visible in slightly raised areas in the paint surface. There are two further inlaid butterfly battens along an old split a quarter of the way from the left margin. This split and join are both faintly visible from the front, with tiny associated losses along the centre of the latter, which has split slightly. The paint surface is relatively dirty and the varnish is discoloured. There are several surface scratches all around the edge of the painting, and also in the Madonna's hand, and some visible retouching in St Joseph's forehead. Inspection under ultraviolet light is impeded by the opaque varnish, but appears to reveal fine, old retouchings to reduce the appearance of craquelure, notably above the figures' heads, in the Christ Child's arm, in the area between him and St. John, in some parts of the Madonna's green robe, and on the right-hand side. There is also retouching along the bottom of the central join, and what appear to be a few scattered spot retouchings through the flesh tones.
"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."

We are grateful to Dr. José Gómez Frechina for proposing the attribution to the Alzira Master.