Mathys Schoevaerdts

The canvas has been relined. The paint surface is secure and overall in good condition. There is an old vertical damage of approximately 10cm to the right of the spire, as visible in the catalogue illustration. There are some old, discoloured retouchings just visible to the naked eye in the sky, most notably along the aforementioned damage. These are confirmed under UV light, which also reveals some further retouchings and minor strengthenings to the rest of the canvas, but overall this work has been sensitively done and is not obtrusive. Could hang now. Offered in a stained wood frame 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."

Schoevaerdts was a Flemish landscape painter born in Brussels and whilst some of his landscapes do include imaginary architectural setting this is certainly one of his most fantastical settings.  He was born in Brussels and trained under Adriaen Frans Boudewyns.  There is no evidence to suggest he ever went to Venice so the present capriccio is probably based on contemporary images of the city.