Jan Peeters the Elder Antwerp 1624 - 1678

Small tears at edges of vertical creases (where sheet was previously folded in sketchbook), and in one or two other places, top edge. Surface very slightly dirty in places, especially towards left and right edges, but condition otherwise very good and fresh. Framed (with related print mounted, visibly, in back of frame).
"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."

This drawing, and the following two lots, belong to a series of more than 60 views by Peeters of towns in Flanders and North-East France, which he seems to have executed circa 1648-51.  A large group of these views, including the next two lots, were exhibited at Douwes Fine Art in Amsterdam and London in 1987.  The present sheet is fractionally different in size from the exhibited drawings, but must originate from the same series.  Many of the drawings, including this, served as the basis for prints, in the same direction, illustrating Martin Zeiller's Topographia Galliae, published by Mattheus Merian in Frankfurt in 1656, and an impression of the print after this drawing is here mounted in the back of the frame.  

See also lots 506 and 531.