The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.
Both wings are executed on panel with a vertical grain, each with a slight convex bow. The backs of the panels have been covered with canvas and gessoed. Saint John is executed on a panel comprised of a single board and the Magdalene is executed on a panel made up by two vertically oriented boards, the panel join and associated retouches are visible in the catalogue image. An underdrawing laying out the basic contours of the figures on both panels.
The paint layer is stable and exhibits a fine craquelure, which is slightly more pronounced on the Magdalene panel. The varnish is clear, although it has clouded somewhat with age. Small repairs on each panel along the craquelure are visible. Repairs along the wood grain, especially in the dark backgrounds, are also visible in both panels. Repairs to Saint John's clothing, beard, hair, proper right arm, and left leg, and over the lamb are visible in natural light. Retouches scattered throughout the Magdalene's elaborate gown address the craquelure and thinned areas of paint, these are visible in natural light. The aforementioned repairs as well as additional repairs to the background, especially on the Magdalene panel, are visible in ultraviolet light. Further inspection under ultraviolet light is hindered by an opaque varnish. The pair present well and are offered in a cassetta style frame.
Print Report