Balthasar van der Ast

Mrs. A. K. Nicholas, St. Peters, Cross-in-Hand, Sussex, circa 1963;
Thence by descent.

The support consists of a single oak panel which is uncradled and bevelled along all but the upper edges. The panel is flat other than at the top where it is beginning to bow. The paint surface in general is in very good condition, especially in the fruit itself. The stone top, however, is heavily strengthened and there are restorations along the lip. There is further strengthening in the background above the still life and a repair (circa 3 by 3 centimetres) in the very centre of this area. Some of the vine leaves have also undergone retouching. The petals of the carnation, lower right, are worn and partly reconstructed. Sold with a later wood frame.
"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 Meijer of the RKD, The Hague, for confirming the attribution on the basis of photographs and for suggesting a date of ca. 1618-20.