Circle of Joseph van Bredael

With B. Koetser, London (according to a label on the reverse).

The single copper panel is flat and stable. The paint surface is secure and generally sound. No major damages are apparent to the naked eye. When inspected under UV light, quite extensive areas of strengthenings and retouchings can be made out under the varnish. Overall the painting retains its luminosity.
"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."

The present painting is based on a work by Jan Brueghel the Elder known in two versions: one in the Clowes Collection, Indianapolis Museum of Art, and the other in Campione, Silvano Lodi Collection (see K. Ertz, Jan Brueghel der Ältere, Cologne 1979, cat. no. 101, p. 574, and cat. no. 257, pp. 600-01, the latter reproduced p. 187, fig. 215).  There is a further version by Jan Brueghel the Younger in Antwerp, Koninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten, Inv. no. 910 (see K. Ertz, Jan Brueghel der Jüngere, Freren 1984, pp. 218-219, cat. no. 35, reproduced).  The present work differs from these in the inclusion of the travellers in the lower right foreground and some other details. A version of this composition attributed in full to Bredael was sold in these Rooms 27 April 2006, lot 13, for £25,000.