Marten Ryckaert

Panel has been cradled. the surface is clean and painting is presentable as is. the paint surface has been very well retained and there is nice impasto and lovely detail throughout the landscape. colors remain strong. an original horizontal panel join runs across upper part of sky and foliage. under ultraviolet light, most of the sky area fluoresces and we assume that this is due to retouching. there are a few very small retouches to upper part of tree at far right and some horizontal lines of retouching just above bottom edge, probably due to rubbing from a previous frame. a few other very minor retouches here and there in landscape, but generally most of the landscape area looks very good. In a black wood frame with gilt decoration all around.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This Idyllic coastal landscape reveals the influence of Paul Bril on Ryckaert's style, whose work he would have seen in Rome during his sojourn in Italy between 1605 and 1610.  The present painting, with its gentle diagonals, atmospheric perspective and subtle rendition of light, echoes Bril's work from his late Roman period when the artist had incorporated the classicizing elements of the landscapes of Annibale Carracci and Adam Elsheimer.  The chalky, hazy blues and brilliant emerald greens that dominate this composition are typical of Ryckaert's palette.