Herman van der Mijn

together with a Portrait of Christopher Wandesford, 2nd Viscount Castlecomer (1683/4-1719), by Michael Dahl (Stockholm 1659-1743 London)

Anonymous sale, London, Sotheby's, 16th December 1981, lots 218 & 219 (bt. by the present owner)

STRUCTURE Both canvases have been lined. PAINT SURFACE The first (he in red) appears to be in fair condition. There is evidence of a thick discoloured varnish and an uneven craquelure overall in keeping with the picture's age. There is evidence of abrasion and and flaking to all four canvas edges most probably caused by an ill-fitting frame. Elsewhere there are some scattered minor paint losses in the background caused by cracking and there is a minor visible rise to the surface in the shoulder. The second (he in blue) appears to be in ok condition. There is a thick discoloured varnish overall. There is also significant surface dirt and the picture could probably benefit from a clean. There are some areas of abrasion noticeable to the canvas edges and to the sitter's right elbow. There are two minor paint losses noticeable in the centre right above the sitter's left shoulder. ULTRAVIOLET Examination to both under ultraviolet light reveals the presence of a thick discoloured varnish overall which makes futher inspection difficult. FRAME Held in matching gilt wood frames. To speak to a specialist about this lot please contact Julian Gascoigne on +44 (0)207 293 5482, or at julian.gascoigne@sothebys.com, or Ludo Shaw Stewart on +44 (0)207 293 5816, or at ludovic.shawstewart@sothebys.com.
"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."