Follower of Jan Brueghel the Elder

The panel is uncradled and flat and stable, with a small knock lower right corner, hidden beneath the frame. The paint surface is not too dirty with colours well-preserved. The varnish appears to be old and ineffective. There are small areas of wear throughout, particularly in the inscription lower left, in the figures of the foreground, and to some of the ships' sails. There are small areas also, of visible retouching that has discoloured. Sometimes the areas of wear expose small spots of copper, but these are not noticeable to the naked eye without very close inspection. Inspection under ultraviolet light shows a thick cloudy varnish throughout. There are few scattered retouchings: in the left of the sky, and around the cupid's head. This lot is offered in an ebonized frame, with gold sight edge, with a few minor knocks to the paintwork, but otherwise in good condition.
"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."