Hendrick de Valk Active in Haarlem circa 1693 - 1717

Anonymous sale, Berlin, Lepke, 24 February 1914, lot 168, reproduced as by Richard Brakenburgh); Anonymous sale, The Hague, Zurcher, 25 September 1923, lot 83(as by Jan Steen); Dr. J.C.Hooykaas, The Hague (according to a label on the reverse); Simeon Del Monte, Brussels by 1928; With London dealer, 23 Albermarle Street, W1, no 29 (accoording to a label on the reverse). Heirs of Simeon Del Monte, Brussels, by whom sold, London, Sotheby's, 24 June 1959, lot 58, (as by Jan Steen) through Eric Estorick, London, to Mr. J. Paul Getty; J. Paul Getty, Sutton Place, Surrey, 1959, 1959 upon his death in 1976 held in trust by the Estate, Estate

The actual painting is somewhat brighter in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests. The panel has been cradled and probably consists of one plank. There is minor frame abrasion to the outer edges. The paint surface has a very fine craquelure pattern. The paint surface seems to be in good condition, though slightly thin in places, e.g. the coat to the lower right and to the background. Inspection under ultra violet light reveals tiny scattered retouchings throughout. The painting is offered in a decorative, gilt wood frame with a few damages to the upper edge.
"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."

According to the records of the R.K.D., this painting was at some time signed. When sold in Berlin in 1914 it was attributed to Brakenburgh, so the signature must have been removed by later time. Later a false singature was subsequently removed.