Petrus van Schendel Belgian, 1806-1870

Richard Green Fine Paintings, London (by 1973)
Sale: Christie's Laren, Netherlands, 22 October 1974, lot 95 
Hermann Schnabel, Hamburg

Geraldine Norman, ed., Dutch Painters of the Nineteenth Century, Woodbridge 1973, illustrated on the cover

This condition report has been provided by Hamish Dewar, Hamish Dewar Ltd. Fine Art Conservation, 14 Masons Yard, Duke Street, St James's, London SW1Y 6BU. Examination report unconditional and without prejudice Petrus van Schendel Market Square in Rotterdam at night oil on canvas Structural Condition The canvas has been lined and is providing a stable and secure support. No further structural intervention is required. Paint Surface The paint surface has an uneven varnish layer with some surface scratches and abrasions. Revarnishing would be beneficial. There are also some surface deposits which would be removed during surface cleaning. Inspection under ultra-violet light shows some areas of retouching, the most significant of which are: 1) a small area in the sky, just to the right of the statues in the upper left of the composition, 2) around the framing edges, and 3) very fine lines filling craquelure, particularly on the face of the woman in the centre of the composition. There are other small, scattered retouchings. There may be more retouchings beneath the old varnish layers but I could find no trace of them under ultra-violet light. Summary The painting therefore appears to be in good and stable 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."

The view shows the old town hall to the left and St Laurens Church to the right. Van Schendel singles this painting out in his ledger for the period 1840-57: 'Finished the view of the town hall and the big church in Rotterdam by candle and moonlight: a market with vegetables and fruit. The painting should be worth 6000 francs. 89.2 by 120.2 [cm.]'.