Lot 20: MICHELE TOSINI, CALLED MICHELE DI RIDOLFO DEL GHIRLANDAIO | The Holy Family with St Elizabeth and the young St John the Baptist

oil on poplar panel

98.5 by 76.2 cm.; 38 3/4  by 30 in., with additions of 1 cm. (3/8  in.) on each side

oil on poplar panel

The poplar panel is in a beautiful state, is in cradled and seemingly totally undisturbed. It is slightly bowed at each margin. There is a thin filet attached to each vertical margin. The paint surface is in a remarkable state of preservation, finely intact in every major part. The only area affected by damage and subsequent restoration is just below the centre right margin to an area around the virgins hand in shadow. Some of the darker shadows have turned a little translucent and there are some very minor spot retouchings elsewhere but overall the painting has survived in a state that is unusually perfect. Sold with an elaborate Victorian gilt frame.
"This lot is offered for sale subject to Sotheby's Conditions of Business, which are available on request and printed in Sotheby's sale catalogues. The independent reports contained in this document are provided for prospective bidders' information only and without warranty by Sotheby's or the Seller."

George Perkins, Chipstead, Kent;
His deceased sale, London, Christie's, 14 June 1890, lot 36, for £46.4s to Davis (as Baroccio); 
Perhaps acquired by Sir George Faudel-Phillips, 1st Baronet (1840–1922), Balls Park, Herts.;
Sir Lionel Faudel-Phillips, 3rd Baronet (d. 1941), Balls Park, Herts.;
Thence by direct family descent.