Cornelis Symonsz. van der Schalcke

Mrs. A. Philips - de Jongh, Eindhoven;
Anonymous sale, Amsterdam, Christie's, 10 November 1997, lot 134.

The actual painting is somewhat less red and shows more detail than the catalogue illustration suggests. The single panel is flat and stable, and bevelled to the reverse. There's some minor frame abrasion along the outer edges. The paint layer is generally sound, if a little abraded in some areas, where thinly applied. The paint surface is under a slightly dirty varnish. Inspection under UV light is partially impeded by the varnish layer, but does reveal some minor retouchings in the sky and ruins in the background. Offered unframed.
"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."

This painting can be related to the signed and dated 1644 work of A slaughtered pig in a moon lit landscape, in the Mauritshuis, The Hague (inv. no. 800). Both are part of a group of night scenes which Van der Schalcke painted in the early 1640s, inspired by artists like Adam Elsheimer and Rembrandt.