Follower of Thomas de Keyser

T.J. Blakeslee, New York, by 1901;
Mrs. Clarence M. Hyde,
By whom sold, New York, The American Art Association, 19 February 1912, lot 68, for $1600 to Blakeslee Galleries;
Anonymous sale, New York, Doyles, 26 January 2005, lot 1067.

 

The actual painting is softer in tone and has slightly less contrast than the catalogue illustration suggests. The canvas has a stable relining. The paint surface is fairly flattened, due to the relining, and has grown a bit dry. There is a minor tendency towards cupping, e.g. to the background in the upper left. The paint surface is slightly abraded, mostly in the darker colours. There are some tiny flecks of paint loss to the background in the upper right. The paint surface is under a fine craquelure pattern, which varies in places and is under a dirty and discoloured varnish layer. Inspection under ultra violet light is partly impeded by the thick, uneven layer of varnish, but does reveal small scattered retouchings relating older paint losses throughout, as well as retouchings along the edges. Offered in a decorative carved gilt wood frame, in fair condition. (MW)
"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."