Lot 29
  • 29

Benjamin Gerritsz. Cuyp Dordrecht 1612 - 1652

bidding is closed

Description

  • Benjamin Gerritsz. Cuyp
  • The annunciation to the shepherds
  • oil on panel

Provenance

Anonymous sale, Stuttgart, Nagel Auktionen, 26 September 2003, lot 1241;
Anonymous sale, Vienna, Dorotheum, 24 April 2007, lot 121.

Condition

The actual painting is warmerin tone and has less contrast in the colours than the catalogue illustration suggests. The panel consists of three planks and is joined horizontally. The joints are reinforced by canvas strips attached to the reverse. Two horizontal surface cracks are visible to the front in the sky upper centre, and a third horizontal one is visible in the centre above the lower joint. A few minor scratches are visible throughout. The paint surface has grown thin, especially in the brown and grey hues in the lower left and in the centre sky. Furthermore visible are some scattered tiny paint losses. Discoloured retouchings are visible to the naked eye along the two joints and throughout the sky. The paint surface is under a dirty and discoloured varnish layer. Inspection under UV-light confirms abovementioned restorations and shows additional retouchings throughout, including a filled and retouched vertical crack in the lower left, some retouchings and strengthening in the group of shepherds, as well as in the sky and in the branch of the bare tree. Offered in a brown frame with embellishments, in worn condition. (JD)
"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."

Catalogue Note

As is evident in this picture, Benjamin Cuyp  was strongly influenced by Rembrandt, especially in his handling of light. Characteristic of Cuyp's style are the visible, almost sketchy brushstrokes, and subdued palette of pale-yellows, soft reds, and different shades of brown.  Cuyp liked this subject, which gave full reign to his sense of drama, and allowed him to indulge in dramatic chiaroscuro effects.