Hendrik Gerritsz. Pot Haarlem (?) circa 1585 - 1657 Amsterdam

Frank Benthall, Buckfast Abbey (as Van Helmont, according to a label on the reverse);
With Hal O'Nians Gallery, London, where bought by the present owner in 1973.

The actual painting is slightly softer and shows more detail in the darker parts than the catalogue illustration suggests. The single panel is lightly bevelled on all sides. A thin vertical scratch of approximately 4 cm., which has been retouched, is visible in the background to the upper left, as well as a very tiny dent along the right edge. Otherwise, no damages seem to be apparent. Minor strengthening can be observed in the man's costume, in his hair and in the wreath. The painting is under a slightly dirty layer of varnish. Inspection under ultra violet light is largely impeded by the varnish layer, but does confirm the aforesaid retouchings and reveals an additional small vertical scratch, which has been retouched, in the lower right corner. Offered in a simple carved wood frame with a gilt fillet and gilt decorations in fair condition. (MW)
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See for a detailed discussion on the subject and the artist the previous lot.