Flemish School, 15th/16th Century Nativity

Description:

Flemish School, 15th/16th Century

Nativity
Unsigned.
Oil on cradled panel, 31 1/4 x 23 1/4 in. (79.2 x 59.2 cm),framed.
Condition: Horizontal cracks, surface losses, retouch, scattered abrasions, craquelure, varnish inconsistencies, surface grime, worm holes to panel.

Provenance: Purchased by the artist J. Alden Weir, then by descent in the artist's family.

N.B. The lot is accompanied by two x-ray photographs of the painting.
Estimate $5,000-7,000

Significant horizontal cracks to the panel, across the full width, located about 10-1/2 and 14-1/2 inches up from the bottom. Other smaller horizontal cracks overall, more apparent at the l.l. and u.r. Newer cradling.
Craquelure overall, with scattered paint losses and areas of thin pigment. Loss of color most noticeable in the red pigments of Mary's dress and the central angel overhead. Overall degrading of the paint surfaces, and surface imperfections.

There has been old restoration to much of the painting, but done long enough ago that it no longer fluoresces in uv light. The features of the infant's face are no longer clear. Under uv there is more recent overpainting on Mary's forehead, neck, and right cheek, and to her hair. Joseph's face is less retouched, although there is also inpainting on his cheeks. Retouch also to Joseph's sleeve and to the sleeves and lining of Mary's cloak. Retouch to the angels' wings and robes and to cover paint losses in the ceiling of the stable.

Varnish inconsistencies apparent in Mary's cloak and in some of the angel garments.


The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

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