Dutch School, 17th Century

Van der Horst collection, New York;
By whom anonymously sold, New York, Parke-Bernet Galleries, 26-27 February 1947, lot 26 (as by Judith Leyster), to S.B. Fertig;
Thence by descent to the present owners.

F. Fox Hofrichter, Judith Leyster: A Woman Painter in Holland's Golden Age, Doornspijk 1989, p. 78, cat. no. D 13, reproduced, fig. 106 (under Incorrectly Attributed Works).

The panel is flat and stable and is cradled on the reverse. It consists of two pieces, with vertical join visible on the face of the panel and a crack on the left hand side, as apparent in the catalogue image, runs upwards from the lower edge. The paint surface appears in very good condition beneath a discolored varnish with minor retouching to the centre background and very small losses along the panel join. The painting would benefit from a clean and revarnish. Offered in a carved gilt wood frame with minor knocks and losses to the gilding.
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.