Attributed to Justus Sustermans

The canvas has an old relining which has flattened the paint surface, depite the canvas being uneven and a little bumpy in the lower two inches. The canvas has been extened by 1 cm along the vertical edges to fit the frame. Along these join cracks and losses have started to appear though only two very small sections of the canvas lower left have been affected. The paint surface is dirty and under a yellowed varnish. It appears to the naked eye to be in good condition, with just some minor discoloured retouchings in the background and along the edges discernible. The brushwork and impasto are still fresh and well preserved. Inspection under UV light confirms the aforementioned retouchings and confirms the overall good condition. Offered in a carved wooden frame which has suffered some losses but is structurally sound.
"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."

Another version of this composition, attributed to Sustermans (oil on canvas; 64.8 by 47.5 cm.), was in the collection of Sir Henry Hugh Arthur Hoare, 6th Baronet (1865-1947) at Stourhead, Wiltshire, and is now the property of the National Trust (inv. no. 732203).