Jacob Adriaensz. Backer Harlingen 1608 - 1651 Amsterdam

The catalogue illustration is representative. The canvas is unlined and stable. The painting has been quite recently cleaned, restored and re-varnished. There is some thinness in the lower right section and throughout the shadows. There is a large, restored L-shaped tear on the left side of her forehead, approx. 5 by 10cm. There are some small restored damages above her head, a small restored damage at the centre left on her hair and likewise centre right. Inspection under ultra-violet light reveals many tiny spot retouchings concentrated down the bridge of her nose and around her mouth, some strengthening to the shadow under her chin and further spot retouchings throughout. The painting is in fairly good condition overall, in spite of the restored tear and sporadic thinness. Sold unframed. AF*
"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."

We are grateful to Dr. Werner Sumowski who, based on photographs, has endorsed the attribution to Jacob Adriaensz. Backer.