Pieter van Mol

Mr Couturier (according to an old inscription on the reverse);
Anonymous sale, Amsterdam, Christie's, 16 November 2006, lot 21.

The support, with a significant convex bow, consists of four vertical panels joined to the reverse by a series of small vertical batons. The paint surface is secure, clean and in good condition. There is a circular small damage or knot in the wood of approx. 2 cm squared to the left of Christ's left elbow. Inspection under UV light reveals some scattered retouchings most notable along the panel joins. Offered in a stained wood frame with gilded decoration 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."

There is a second, signed version of this composition, with less background upper left, in the Musée Saint-Denis, Reims (see Le Siècle de Rubens dans les collections publiques françaises, exhibition catalogue, Paris 1977, pp. 127-8).