Jacques de Claeuw

With Günter Mayer, Tübingen;
Anonymous sale, Paris, Gallièra, 7 December 1965, lot 146 (both the above as by Hans Bollongier).

Weltkunst, 15 February 1965, p. 128, as by Hans Bollongier (advertisement).

The actual painting is a little softer than the catalogue illustration suggests. The single panel is in good condition and lightly bevelled along the edges. No damages are apparent. The paint is quite thin in the background and, subsequently, tiny scattered retouchings are visible. Otherwise, the paint surface is secure and the highlights have been nicely preserved. The paint surface is under a fairly clear layer of varnish. Inspection under UV light reveals some additional tiny retouchings in the rose on the left, and few in the rose on the right. Offered in a plain wood frame with moulded outer and inner borders in good condition.
"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."

We are grateful to Fred G. Meijer of the R.K.D., The Hague, for suggesting the attribution to Jacques de Claeuw on the basis of a photograph.