Jacob de Wit

Anonymous sale, New York, Sotheby's, 14 January 1994, lot 179;
With Rafael Valls, London, 1994.

The actual painting is slightly less red and cooler in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests. The canvas has an effective relining. No major damages are apparent and the paint surface appears to be in good condition. The paint surface is under a fairly clear layer of varnish. Inspection under UV light reveals very tiny scattered retouches, both in the background and in the putti, but this is very well done. There are two larger areas of retouching in the putto lower right and in the upper left corner. Overall, in good condition and ready to hang. Offered in a plain gilt wood frame 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."

Jacob de Wit excelled in Rococo ceiling and room decorations, and his output of colourful ceiling and wall paintings, door panels and chimney pieces was unrivalled.
This painting is a characteristic example of another genre he popularised: grisailles, also known as 'witjes', a play on his own name. These imitation reliefs of stucco often were the corner pieces of a decorative scheme that he designed, and mainly depicted allegories portrayed by groups of putti. Another such allegory, An allegory of the Hunt, identical in size to the present work, was sold, New York, Sotheby's, 27 May 2004, lot 41.