Studio of Frans Snyders

Casa Torres, Madrid (inv. no. 12319).

H. Robels, Frans Snyders, Wurzburg 1989, p.334, cat. no. 236a (as a copy after Snyders).

The painting is lighter in tone than as shown in the catalogue illustration. The painting is in an excellent state of preservation, especially when considering the size of the canvas. The paint surface is well preserved throughout and covered by a layer of old, protective and now dirty varnish. There are a handful of restored damages, for example above the outstretched back of the hound leaping at the boar out of the lower right corner, and another above and to the left (over the background landscape). A further restored damage is on the neck of the grey hound joining in the fight at the centre left margin. Inspection under ultra violet light reveals small retouchings and strengthenings throughout, few of them more than a small brush width in size. Sold with a gilt 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."

The composition follows that of Snyders and Wildens' original sold in these Rooms, 8 December 2004, lot 32.

The landscape is by another hand, possibly Jan Wildens.