FOLLOWER OF ROGIER VAN DER WEYDEN | A triptych: The Deposition; with Joseph of Arimathea (left wing) and Mary Magdalen (right wing)

With Antichita Palazzo Morando di Paolo Palestrino & C. s.a.s. Milan, 1962 (as Rogier van der Weyden).

All three panels are cradled, likely as a result of a degree of movement along the various, vertical panel joins, of which there are 5. The top 8 cm. of all three panels are additions (it is unclear as to what date they were added). The paint surface has suffered in the past, and there is retouching throughout that is now discoloured. Areas without restoration have a very fine craquelure and appear rather more nicely preserved. There is some very free underdrawing visible in parts. The varnish is very patchy and discoloured and in raking light the surface does appear to be very pitted and uneven. There are both minor retouched losses and unrestored losses scattered throughout. Assessment of the condition under ultraviolet light is easier. The restoration along the panel joins and through old damages fluoresce very clearly, and appear to be rather broadly applied - a proportion of them are perhaps unnecessary. The best preserved areas are the the face, beard and right hand of Joseph of Arimathea; the face of the Evangelist; the head, torso, hands and legs of Christ, as well as the fabric around his middle; and the Magdalenes body and dress and the chalice she holds.
"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."

This composition is thought to derive from a lost original by Rogier van der Weyden, probably painted around 1430. The design must have enjoyed exceptional popularity to judge from the large number of copies and variants that were produced after it.