Peter Roddelstet, called Peter Gottlandt, and German School, circa 1600

Douaniaire Vicomtesse P. Magnee-van Aefferden, Castle Horn;
Thence by inheritance to the present owners, by 1978.

The catalogue illustrations are representative for the actual plate and painting, although the actual painting is slightly less bright. Recto: a few ink spots are visible , otherwise, the engraving is still beautifully present. A few scratches can be seen along the lower and upper edges. Verso: a few retouched paint losses can be seen in the upper edge and along the lower edge. Otherwise, in good condition. Retouches can be seen in the background figure and in the background. This is confirmed by inspection under ultra violet light. Offered in a later classical gilt wood frame in good condition. (ML/MW)
"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."

An etching of the copper plate was reproduced in the catalogue of the exhibition held to celebrate Lucas Cranach's 500th birthday in 1972.¹ It shows Kurfurst Johann Friedrich von Sachsen, who had been portrayed by Cranach and his workshop on many occasions, the one in the Louvre, Paris (inv. no. 1184) probably being the most renown.

Peter Roddelstet, a painter as well as an engraver, is recorded as active at the court of Kurfurst Johann Friedrich in 1553. He was a pupil of Lucas Cranach the Elder. His engravings mostly include portraits of the Kurfursts von Sachsen.²

The painting on the verso appears to be by a later hand.

1. Weimar, Lucas-Cranach-Galerie, Cranach 1472-1553, Ausstellung zu seinem 500. Geburtstag, 22 June - 15 October 1972, p. 149.
2. See also G.K. Nagler, Die Monogrammisten..., Munich/Leipzig 1863, vol. IV, pp. 884-5, no. 2967.