Panel is cradled and stable. Under a thick glossy varnish. Panel has been added to about 1/4 inch on all four sides. There has been some lifting but these appear to be stable. Scattered slight abrasions, possibly due to rubbing, for example in the face of the man standing in the background to the right of the priest. U.V. shows scattered retouches, especially in the face of Joseph and one in the upper right corner. The varnish is quite thick and overall difficult to read through, so there may be some additional older retouches, which are not detectable with U.V. Overall picture presents a strong image with lovely retention of detail, particularly in some of the figures. Paint surface is in a good state related to the painting's age.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Both compositionally and stylistically, the work of this as yet unidentified artist closely follows that of Garofalo, whose work he knew and studied. The largest collection of the anonymous master's paintings is still in Ferrara, where he was active from 1533-70. This painting shares much in common with his depiction of Pentecost in the Pinacoteca (inv. no. 116), not least the overall mise-en-scène, placing the figure group on a sharply receding tiled floor, and setting it before a set of columns either side of an alcove which is partly concealed by a red-rimmed green curtain. Moreover, the heads, notably those of the elders standing to the left, correspond closely with those of the apostles in the Pentecost.