Justus de Verwer

Private collection, Germany, from at least 1970 until circa 2000, at which point transferred to a Spanish private collection.

The stable support consists of a single flat panel, bevelled on all sides. The paint surface is secure, if a little dirty, and the details of the painting, especially in the ship and white froth of the sea are well preserved. There is a short stretch of frame abrasion to the centre of the left hand margin, alongside a very small hole to the centre of the same margin. A small dent of less than 1cm2 can be discerned just to the right of this hole, but other than this there are no damages visible on surface of the painting. Inspection under UV light reveals some fairly extensive scattered retouchings in the sea and sky, but confirms that the central boat remains untouched and original. Offered in an ornate gilt wood and plaster 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 both Dr. Gerlinde de Beer and Dr. Jan Kelch for proposing the attribution to Justus de Verwer on the basis of photographs.