Lined on a solid stretcher, all keys present and fair tension but the stretcher and canvas sits lightly away from the frame rebate at the top. The original canvas has a seam running vertically just to the right of the Christ child's head, which has been filled and retouched and flaking slightly.

There has been an extensive history of flaking, loss and restoration, likely in several campaigns. Much of the later overpaint is very apparent, particularly to the face of the Madonna (see images). Much of the old flaking of paint and ground is historic and stable, but there are patches of lifting and flaking original paint and restoration. There are losses of paint and ground both filled and unfilled, retouched and unretouched throughout, with worse passages of broken up paint to the right hand side. This has left the surface rather lumpy and disturbed, particularly at the top.

There are some passages of better preserved paint, notably in the face of the left cherub, and the two right hand figures in the left figure group.

There is much old ingrained dirt and old varnish layers, and a lean and dry surface. The old opaque varnish makes it difficult to see what is happening in the dark passages.

Examined in frame, not examined in ultraviolet light.

We are happy to provide Condition Reports to prospective buyers, but would welcome your request as soon as possible, preferably at least 48 hours before the Day of Sale. We cannot guarantee a reply to any requests made within 48 hours of the start of the auction. The absence of a Condition Report from a lot does not mean that the lot is in perfect condition. A Condition Report is an honest expression of our opinion, not a statement of fact and is provided as a service to the seller. All lots are available on public view ahead of an auction and we encourage prospective buyers to inspect an item in person where possible. Our Condition Reports are not prepared by professional conservators, restorers, or engineers, and are prepared with the naked eye unless otherwise stated.

Regarding Pictures, Prints and Works on Paper, works are not examined out of the frame, unless specifically stated. Tennants Auctioneers do not cover damage to gilded wood or plaster picture frames, or to picture frame glass whilst the item is in our possession.

We accept no liability for the opinions expressed in any Condition Report.