Follower Of Raphael (Italian) Old Master, Oil On Wood Panel C. 16th/17th C., Saint John The Baptist In The Wilderness, H 23'' W 17.5'' Depicting as seated St. John the Baptist as a boy in an exotic spotted fur raising his right hand holding a scepter to heaven. Seated alongside a ten string lyre hanging by a red sash (Psalm 33-2) and the Crown of Life (Revelation 2:10) atop the Old Testament. Unsigned. Framed in a gilded gesso over wood frame from the early 19th c.. Frame having partial gallery label: "WANDENB..." (Likely Wandenberg Freres, Paris), 30" x 24". Provenance: Property from a Grosse Pointe, MI private collector whose family has owned this work for at least three generations. Original gesso over wood panel mounted to an early 19th. c. cradled oak panel. Appears to have early, if not original varnish. When viewed under natural and UV light, there is no evidence of restoration or overpaint in the figure or principal objects. Very minor areas fluoresce under UV light. Gesso losses where the original panel cracked and was subsequently mounted on a cradled panel. Craquelure as evident in photography. It appears that there was very minor restoration at the time the original panel was mounted to the cradled wood panel. It appears that the original varnish was retained at the time of mounting and that another coat of varnish was added in the19th c.. The quality of this work can only be described as superb. Please note all lots show signs of wear commensurate with age and use, and the lack of a statement regarding condition does not imply the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from defects or the effects of aging. Unless otherwise stated, all information provided is the opinion of DuMouchelles’ specialists. Should you have any additional questions regarding the condition of this lot, please email conditions@dumouchelles.com.