Anthonie Beerstraten

The following condition report has been provided by Simon Parkes of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc. 502 East 74th St. New York, NY 212-734-3920, simonparkes@msn.com, an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. This painting has what appears to be a thin lining, which seems to be effective in supporting the work. The paint layer is quite visibly dirty, and will respond well to cleaning. There is no apparent abrasion to even the finest details in the profiles of the trees or buildings, and all of the figures in the foreground and other details are beautifully preserved. No retouches are clearly visible. When the picture is cleaned, the old lining will be seen to be adequate, and the paint layer will be seen to be in clearly lovely condition. Very few, if any, retouches will be required, which is quite extraordinary for a work of this period.
"This lot is offered for sale subject to Sotheby's Conditions of Business, which are available on request and printed in Sotheby's sale catalogues. The independent reports contained in this document are provided for prospective bidders' information only and without warranty by Sotheby's or the Seller."