Circle of Denys Calvaert

Wallraf collection, Cologne (as attributed to Hans von Aachen, according to the inventory of 1824);
Cologne, Wallraf-Richartz Museum, 1925, inv. no. 2254 (according to a label on the reverse, as Netherlandish School 16/17th Century);
Bought from the museum by the family of the present owners on 8 February 1944, for 1,000 RM).

The actual painting is slightly less red and more natural in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests. The panel consists of three planks joined horizontally, and has a recent, partial cradling to the reverse. There's a horizontal crack of approx. 20 cm. in the upper left corner. The paint surface is under a very dirty and glossy varnish. The paint surface is fairly abraded, mostly in the background, and small restored losses can be seen across the surface, e.g. in the boy on the left, in the shoulder of the man on the right, in the cloak of St. Stephen and left of his head. Additional areas of retouching are visible in the background and along the joins. But for a panel this size, the painting is in overall fair condition. Inspection under UV light remains inconclusive due to the dirty varnish. Offered in a plain wood frame in fair 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."