Follower of Hieronymus Galle the Elder

Anonymous sale, London, Christie's, 7 July 1978, lot 213, as G. Recco.

The canvas has been relined, which has somewhat flattened the paint surface. The paint surface is otherwise secure, if a little dirty, and the painting's colours and details are well-preserved. The painting is covered in a thick, glossy varnish. A fine craquelure runs across the pink roses lower centre, and there is some frame abrasion along the upper and left hand margins. There is a small patch of paint loss to the extreme lower left hand corner, presumably due to an old knock, but there are no other major damages to the painting discernible. Inspection under UV light is impeded by the reflective varnish but does reveal scattered spot retouchings to the flowers and the background. These are not extensive and large passages of the painting remain untouched. Offered in an ornalte gilt wood and plaster frame in fairly good condition, though rubbed.
"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."

The 1978 sale catalogues this painting as G. Recco, noting Dr. Bergstrom's suggestion that the picture is the work of Giacomo Recco rather than the later artist Giuseppe Recco.
We are grateful to Fred G. Meijer of the R.K.D. for suggesting that this painting is better understood as by a late follower of Hieronymus Galle the Elder.