Isaac van Oosten

The copper plate is flat and has been affixed to a wooden stretcher for support. The paint layer appears stable. The darker pigments have sunken slightly, especially in the foliage to the right. In the upper portion, there are small infilled losses that are visible with the naked eye, and the surface bears small vertical white marks that do not appear to penetrate the paint layer. These are concentrated in the lower left quadrant, top center and to the left of Adam's head. Under UV, the varnish fluoresces unevenly and there are larger areas of retouch, mainly in the darker pigments, that have been broadly applied. The painting would benefit from cleaning and would respond well to restoration.
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.

The Fall of Man, with its woodland landscape and minutely described animals, is a characteristic example of Van Oosten's work.  As was often the case with Van Oosten, Adam and Eve may have been the work of a specialist figure painter.