Anthonie Palamedesz.

Acquired by Charles Stirling (1771-1830) before 1826 and in his collection at Cawdor before being removed to Keir;
Sold by Order of the Executors of the late Colonel William Stirling of Keir, London, Christie's, 14 December 1990, lot 61;
There purchased by the present owner.

Panel is uncradled and beveled on all four sides. No visible joins. Overall, there is excellent retention of the paint surface with lovely detail throughout. under ultraviolet light, the varnish fluoresces unevenly. there appear to be only a few minor retouches in background. there is no need for further work and painting can be hung as is. In a carved brown wood frame with a gilt inner edge.
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.

Interior scenes depicting soldiers at rest became especially fashionable after 1621 when the Twelve Years' Truce with Spain ended. Stationed throughout the United Provinces, troops would routinely have long stretches of leisure, during which they interacted with the local population as they awaited orders from The Hague. Often referred to as cortegaerdje, these lively scenes accurately depict troops in their time away from the battle field, either alone or with local citizens. The principal exponents in this genre were Pieter Codde, Willem Duyster and Simon Kick in Amsterdam; Jacob Duck in Utrecht; and Anthonie Palamedesz. and Jacob van Velsen in Delft.  As is typical in these scenes, resting soldiers are seen seated and engaged in conversation while they relax and tend to their uniforms.  In other examples, figures are depicted arguing over plunder, carousing with prostitutes, or simply playing cards or enjoying a pipe.

The present work is a fine example of this type of work which Palamedesz. specialized in throughout the 1640s and 1650s. Though Palamedesz seems to have focussed on musical and merry companies early in his career, works such as the present guardroom interior are what he became most sought after for during his career in Delft.