Simon Pietersz. Verelst The Hague 1644 - 1721 (?) London

Mrs. Jebsa (according to a label on the reverse);
Acquired from the great uncle of the present owner.

The catalogue illustration is representative, if not quite yellow enough in tone. The canvas has a fairly old relining, which still appears to be sound, but there is some irregularity along the top edge. The paint surface is dirty and the varnish layer now very discoloured. The thickness of the varnish tends to impede examination under ultra-violet light but the painting appears to be beautifully preserved beneath, with virtually all the flowers apparently intact. There has been some minor local retouching, for example to the hindmost blooms in shadow and to the glass vase, but this is not significant. This lot is offered with a later English carved and swept wood frame in good condition.
"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."

A very similar work by Verelst, of the same composition but with minor differences to the details, was with Richard Green, London, 1991, no. 26.

We are grateful to Fred G. Meijer for endorsing the attribution to Verlest on the basis of photographs.