Follower of Frederik van Valckenborch

The actual painting is more open in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests. The canvas has a stable relining (glue). There is a horizontal crease through the lower part of the painting. The paint surface seems to be well preserved, especially in the trees, but is a bit thin in the village in the foreground. Some small discoloured retouchings are visible in the sky, in the figures in the foreground, in the village and in the forest behind the village. There are two larger spots of retouching in the sky, one centre left which is restored with a patch to the reverse, and one near the mountain. There are retouchings along the aforementioned crease. The paint layer is under a dirty varnish layer. Inspection under UV light reveals the small scattered retouchings as mentioned before. Offered in a decorative wooden and plaster frame with some minor chips.
"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."