The Pseudo-Simons

"The following condition report has been provided by Henry Gentle, an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. The painting has an old lining. There is a loss of tension reflected in pronounced stretcher marks. The paint surface is stable, however, with areas that are slightly raised. There is a small damage and paint loss to the peeled orange right and to the vine leaves upper right. The impasto is well preserved throughout. The very discoloured and degraded varnish makes it difficult to assess the condition of the background paint sufficiently. Suffice it to say abrasion can be seen to the raised areas of paint and as a result the paint has been strengthened here .The main elements of the still life are in good condition with some obvious discoloured retouching to the lobster. Offered in a carved gilt frame, good condition."
"This lot is offered for sale subject to Sotheby's Conditions of Business, which are available on request and printed in Sotheby's sale catalogues. The independent reports contained in this document are provided for prospective bidders' information only and without warranty by Sotheby's or the Seller."

Another work, of remarkably similar composition, was sold in these Rooms, 7 December 1988, lot 134, when attributed Michiel Simons.