Pieter Christoffel Wonder

Mr A. Staring (1890-1980), De Wildenborch, Vorden, The Netherlands;
His widow, Mrs Staring-De Mol van Otterloo;
Sold from her deceased estate, Amsterdam, Christie's, 11 November 1996, lot 82.

The single panel is flat and stable, and has been bevelled to the reverse along the edges. The paint surface is in good condition under a discoloured varnish. Inspection under UV lgiht reveals some minor retouchings along the craquelure. The panel is stuck on to eo a velvet lined backing surrounded by a frame.
"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."

A. Staring was a diplomat until 1919, when he decided to devote the remainder of his long life to art history.  He was particularly interested in the 18th Century, and among his many publications was his monograph on Jacob de Wit, still regarded as the standard work on the artist.  Staring published an article on P.C. Wonder in Oud Holland in 1925, in which he pointed out that the by then forgotten artist had gone to Scotland in 1819 at the invitation of the painter John Murray, and remained there for more than a decade.¹

1. A. Staring, `Een Schots verzamelaar en de Nederlandsche kunst', in Oud Holland, XLII, 1935, pp. 97-108.