Lot 289
  • 289

Pieter Jansz. Quast

Estimate
1,800 - 2,200 USD
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Description

  • Pieter Jansz. Quast
  • Vagabond family
  • Black chalk and graphite on vellum
  • 163 by 102 mm; 6 3/8  by 4 in

Condition

Laid down on an old decorative mount, which has in turn been hinge mounted to a modern mount. There are some small stains and minor abrasions to the sheet. The combination of media remains predominantly well intact and in reasonably good condition throughout. Sold unframed.
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.

Catalogue Note

Quast was one of the great satirists in 17th century Dutch art, lampooning in his drawings every manner of pretension and foolishness.  He is best known for his caricatures and drawings of scenes from popular comedies and farces but a number of those drawings also contain a strong political element, relating to the horrors of the oppressive Spanish rule over the Netherlands and the often bloody wars of independence. The present drawing, depicting a vagabond family, is semi-caricatural in its handling, especially in the figure of the man in the background, whose hat slips precariously over one eye, emphasizing his disheveled and dumbfounded look.  The chaotic nature of the scene is heightened by the young girl who reaches for the water jug as her mother nurses another offspring nearby.