Attributed to Gillis Claesz. de Hondecoeter

Sold: Christie's, New York, April 4, 1990, lot 156 (as Circle of Roelant Savery)

The work is in good condition, minor frame abrasion is evident at the edges, pigments have darkened along left edge, some thinness from cleaning in some areas. UNDER UV: Minor inpainting at the edges as well as a few small specks of inpainting in the body of the work. There are a number of small specks on the cow as well, all fairly minor.
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.

Argus was charged by Juno with the guardianship of Io, a priestess seduced by Jove (see lot 712). Jove had turned Io into a heifer in order to avoid her detection but the deception did not last long, Juno discovered Io and dispatched Argus to watch over her. Jove, in turn, sent Mercury to slay Argus and free Io. Disguised as a shepherd, Mercury cast a spell over the giant, causing him to fall asleep. Io was freed but in retribution Juno dispatched a gadfly to merciless torment her. 

Given that the copper mark of Peeter Stas is also dated 1608, and the brand of the Hands of Antwerp are present, it is more than likely that this work was executed while Hondecoeter was still living in his native Antwerp. He left that city in 1610 for Amsterdam, where he would eventually become the head of the Guild of St Luke.