Isaac van Oosten

Purchased by the grandfather of the present owner in the 1950s.

Copper plate is flat and stable. under a very dirty and discolored old varnish. the paint surface is generally quite well retained and there is very good perservation of the detail throughout in animals and landscape. there are some old, discolored small retouches that can be seen scattered in sky. under UV: it is difficult to see much due to the old dirty varnish. there appear to be two areas of retouching in the water below rocks at right side and retouches to sky as mentioned. this painting has not been attended to in a long time and would benefit from a light cleaning and sensitive restoration which should improve the appearance. In a plain black wood frame with gilt inner rim.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

In both composition and handling, the present work is a fine and representative example of the style of Antwerp painter Isaac van Oosten. Similar to other works by the artist, it is painted on a large-scale copper plate, the preferred choice of support for works of this type. Much of van Oosten's best work, among which this must certainly rank, resembles the late work of Jan Brueghel the Younger (Antwerp 1601-1678). This is apparent most visibly in the beautifully rendered horse in the left foreground.

The figure of God in the foreground appears to be by a specialist figure painter, probably Willem van Herp (Antwerp 1614-1677), who is believed to have collaborated with van Oosten on numerous compositions. Two such examples, also depicting Old Testament scenes, were sold, London, Sotheby's, 6 July 2006, lots 102-3, for £48,000 and £60,000, respectively. Another version of this particular composition was sold New York, Sotheby's, 10 October 1991, lot 75, for $71,500 (as Attributed to Jan van Kessel, the Elder).