Frans Francken the Younger

Purchased by the grandfather of the present owner in 1908.

Copper plate is flat. under a dirty, dull old varnish. there are some small scattered paint losses in the foreground to the right of the seated figures, a few on the seated woman at left, a few lower right on signature and some on rocks and tree trunk at left side. otherwise, there is very good retention of the paint surface and detail. ultraviolet light reveals a very uneven varnish which makes it impossible to read. painting would benefit from light cleaning and sensitive restoration. In a gilt wood frame with a few nicks and 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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The theme and parts of the composition of this painting are similar to that of another work by Francken, dated 1608 (see U. Härting, Frans Francken II, Freren 1989, p. 346, cat. no. 368, reproduced p. 73, color plate 9).  However that painting, which includes the figure of war in the sky, is more clearly identifiable as an allegory of the horrors of war.

The copper bears the mark of the Antwerp coppersmith Peter Stas (see detail) who worked closely with many of the best artists of the period including amongst others Jan Brueghel I, Ambrosius Bosschaert I and Otto van Veen.  From 1608 Stas's mark changed and now included the Antwerp hand within his punch as we see here.  The monogram is placed on the center of the plate, which has been scored to locate the central point.  The Antwerp hand is placed directly above his monogram.