Gerard Hoet Zaltbommel 1648 - 1733 The Hague

Acquired by the present owner in the 1960s.

The actual painting is softer in tone and has slightly less contrast than the illustration in the catalogue suggests. The panel consists of one plank and is bevelled to the upper and right edges. A horizontal curved crack running from the left to the right edge, which has been repaired and retouched, is visible above the lower edge. One very tiny spot of paint loss is visible to the upper centre. Some thinnes can be observed to the background in the sky, which shows some discoloured retouchings. There is frame abrasion to the outer edges. A few tiny discoloured retouchings can be seen in the figures to the right. Otherwise, the painting seems to be in good condition. The paint surface is under a thick layer of discoloured varnish and there's some surface dirt. Inspection under ultra violet light reveals that the varnish has been unevenly cleaned. It also confirms the retouchings as mentioned above, and reveals additional tiny retouchings throughout, e.g. in the rocks above the figures to the left, in the sky, along the edges, as well as minor strengthenings in the plants and the group of figures to the right. A vertical retouching of approximately 5 cm. is visible to the centre right, as well as a slightly smaller vertical one to the upper left. Offered in a faux tortoise shell frame in good condition. (MW/ML)
"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."