Follower of Jan Brueghel the Elder

With Galerie Robert Finck, Brussels, from whom presumably acquired by the family of the present owners.

Brussels, Galerie Robert Finck, Tableaux de maîtres du XVème au XVIIIème siècle, Album 13, no 33, reproduced ("Le port de pêche").

The support consists of a single uncradled oak panel, bevelled on all sides except the top, where a line of small wooden battens hold an old split 1 cm from the top edge. The painting has been cleaned and restored in the past. The paint surface appears to be in excellent condition, with no major damages and only slight wear to the sailboats on the right hand side. No recent intervention of any kind is visible under ultra violet light but this is impeded somewhat by the varnish layer.. A certain degree of discoloured older restoration is detectable around and along the old split and to small touchings out in the clouds and the foreground, and to a small area alongside the fisherman in the centre. The varnish remains clear and even. This lot is offered with a modern parcel gilt and painted frame inthe Flemish style in good condition.
"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."