Circle of Jan Havicksz. Steen

The actual painting is slightly warmer in tone and has more contrast than the catalogue illustration would suggest.The panel is uncradled, bevelled on all sides and is made up of one plank, which is sligthly bowed to the right side. The paint surface is in good condition, the dark tones of the background appear to have become slightly transparant. There is some retouching to the foreground and some strengthening to the figures, all visible to the naked eye. The painting is covered in a thick layer of recently applied varnish. Inspection under ultra violet light reveals extensive retouchings to all figures, extensive strengthening to the table, chair and tric-trac game. Additional retouching to the upper right corner, due to the frame and a retouched vertical scratch to the lower right side, measuring 7 cm. The faces and the highlights, however appear to be in quite good condition. Offered in a later ebonised frame, with a gilt inlay, several damages.
"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."

A near-contemporary copy painted after the signed original, which was sold London, Christie's, 4 July 1997, lot 22 (see K. Braun, Jan Steen, Rotterdam 1980, p. 127, cat. no. 286, reproduced).