Workshop of Joost Cornelisz. Droochsloot

The catalogue illustration is representative for the actual painting. The canvas is relined (wax). The paint surface is in fair condition with no major damages, it is however quite abraded to the sky and some of the houses. Discoloured retouchings and overpainting can therefore be seen in the sky and houses, as well as some strengthening. The figures in the front however, seem to have been nicely preserved. The paint surface is under a fine layer of dirt and discoloured varnish. Inspection under Ultra Violet light confirms the above and reveals additional small retouchings throughout in the sky, an unevenly applied varnish layer, some retouchings along the edges and minor strengthening in the figures in the far centre. Offered in a carved and gilt wood frame, chips. (ML)
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This painting is a studio variant of a vastly popular composition by Joost Cornelisz. Droochsloot, known in several versions: the earliest, signed and dated 1618, in the Musées royaux des Beaux-Arts, Brussels (inv. no. 2551); one, signed and dated 1622, in the Centraal Museum, Utrecht (inv. no. 2520); and another, signed and dated 1625, in the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam (inv. no. SK-A-606).