Edwaert Collier

"The following condition report has been provided by Henry Gentle, an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. The original canvas has been wax/lined and is very stiff and inert; the paint layer is stable but raised. There are significant restored and repainted elements including the background, upper left, the base of the column and the musical score book. There has been the reduction of the pale cracks where the paint is raised and of some minute blisters, the result of a faulty ground, which has resulted in a pixelated image. Some of the restoration is excessive and imprecise and there are passages of the painting that are well preserved. The varnish is discoloured and its removal would improve the tonality. Offered in a modern plain moulded painted frame in 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."

The composition is very similar to that in another vanitas still life, signed and dated 1693, which was sold in Amsterdam, Christie's, 14 May 2003, lot 196.