Ferdinand Bol Dordrecht 1616 - 1680 Amsterdam

With Thomas Agnew and Sons Ltd., London.

The painting is slightly less red and more yellow-green in tone than in the catalogue illustration. The canvas has an old relining which still holds well. The painting is very dirty and the varnish layer discoloured. The paint surface has survived rather well overall and the figure shows no obvious signs of wear: her head and hands, in particular, are in good condition. Inspection under ultra-violet light reveals minor localised strengthening to her cap (on her ear) and on her pupils, but her face is otherwise intact; as are her hands, white cuffs and collar. There is some localised strengthening to the pages of the book she holds. More significant strengthening is visible (under UV but also to the naked eye) as broad brushstrokes on her black robe, particularly in the deeper folds and on her front. There are also older broadly-applied strokes on the wall behind her, all around the figure and on the window frame, and these were probably done to conceal thinness in the background. These broad retouchings appear to have been quite freely (and perhaps over enthusiastically) applied and are rather crude: they could be much improved. The painting would benefit from cleaning. The modern painted wood frame is in good condition but unsuitable.
"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."