North German School, 18th Century

This work is slightly more yellow in the sky than the catalogue reproduction suggests. The canvas has a recent relining and is in good condition. The paint surface is in good state, but needs a general clean to bring out the colours hidden by dust. There is a fine craquelure throughout the composition, but only three localized areas where this is in any danger of flaking. The craquelure is most advanced where the stetcher has slightly pressed from behind, i.e. along the edges. A fantastic thick impasto in the foliage and by the figures is still preserved and adds to the vivid impression of this large work. Inspection under Ultraviolet reveals some very old retouching in the sky and more recent retouching on the horse and the clothing of the figures, but not the faces which are untouched and intheir original state. There is evidence of an old spill of reddish liquid in the trees on the left, which should easily be removed by a general clean. This lot is sold in a very decorative moulded gilt frame with painted flat areas in the four corners.
"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."

There is a wax seal bearing the coat of arms of the Stewarts of Ochiltree, Scotland,  on the reverse affixed to the stretcher bar.¹ Inscribed below the coat of arms is the motto of the Klöckler family of Alsace: Plus bien que paraître ("Be more than you appear").

1. See B. Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales, London 1884, p. 971.