After Jacob Jordaens

With Trouvailles Inc (according to a label on the reverse).

The canvas is unlined and coming away from the stretcher. There are some scattered paint losses and small tears. There is a more prominent part restored U-shaped tear to the centre which is patched to the reverse and runs through the central male figure's head. There are scattered retouchings although varnish prevents thourough inspection under UV light. Offered in a gilded wooden framewith several knocks and paint losses.
"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 19th century copy after Jordaens's original in Valenciennes, Musée des Beaux-Arts, on loan from the Musée du Louvre, Paris, (see R. A. d'Hulst, Jacob Jordaens, London, 1982, p. 168, cat. no. 168). There are several known versions of this subject by Jordaens, which illustrates an old Flemish proverb.