Willem Roelofs

Collection Charles Baervoets, Heyst
Thence by descent to the present owner

CC Scharpoord Knokke-Heist, Scinfala, Museum van de Zwinstreek, Impressionisten in Knocke & Heyst (1870-1914), 24 November 2007-20 January 2008

D. Lannoy, F. Devinck, Th. Thomas, Impressionisten in Knocke & Heyst (1870-1914), Oostkamp 2007, p. 161, illustrated

Original canvas. Some minor craquelure in the sky, otherwise this work is 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."

In 1875 Charles Baervoets opened a hotel in the Kerkstraat in Heyst and later opened a second hotel 'Grand Hôtel des Bains' on the Zeedijk in that same town. He was an art collector and frequently met with artists like Louis Artan, Théodore Rops, Jean Le Mayeur and Willem Roelofs, all active in Brussels at that time. During the summer Baervoets would invite them for a 'free' stay in his hotel. In return he asked for a painting. That is how he acquired the present lot.

It is very likely that the present lot depicts the polderlandscape of Ramskapelle, south of Heyst.