Osias Beert the Elder

The painting is slighty less yellow in tone than that catalogue illustration suggests. The support consists of a single horizontal panel with a slight convex bow and slight bevelling to the upper and lower edges. There is a baton inserted on the reverse which seems to have been applied to secure a horizontal crack of c. 15cm in length in the centre of the painting. The retouchings to this area have become slightly discoloured but this damage is not overly noticeable. The paint surface is secure, if a little dirty, and the colours remain vibrant. Some stretches of retouchings to the upper, right hand and lower hand margins are visible to the naked eye, and were presumably added to areas of frame abrasion. Inspection under UV light confirms the aforementioned areas of retouchings and further reveals a handful of small, scattered spot retouchings, mainly in the background. The bowl of strawberries is particularly well-preserved. The painting is generally in good condition but could benefit from a light surface clean and renewed restoration of the aforementioned crack. Offered in a modern wood and black painted 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."

We are grateful to Fred G. Meijer of the R.K.D for confirming the attribution to Beert following first hand examination of the original.