Jacob Janssen 1779-1856

The canvas has been relined. There is some faint craquelure to the paint surface is There is some light surface dirt. Otherwise in good condition. Ultraviolet light reveals a few scattered spots of cosmetic retouching, notably to the foliage in the lower left corner, the tree to the right of the work and a few spots in the sky. Held in a simple wooden frame with a gilt slip in fair 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."

Jacob Janssen was born in Einlage, Prussia, moving to Philadelphia in 1807 to study drawing under Signor Pieso Ancora. He travelled extensively in Brazil where he painted scenes of Rio de Janeiro, also visiting North America, India, Zanzibar and the Philippines. He eventually settled in Sydney, Australia where he died in 1856. The current painting depicts a view in Sydney which was a popular subject for Janssen, and relates to other works such as Panoramic View of Sydney, currently held in the British Government Art Collection.