Circle of Cornelis Saftleven

Anonymous sale, Amsterdam, Sotheby's, 6 May 1998, lot 77, where acquired by the present collector.

The painting is warmer in colour and slightly more muted in tone than the catalogue illustration suggest. The picture is painted on a single panel which is slightly bowed and the reverse has been shaved around the outer edges, possible to fit an old frame. The paint surface is in good overall condition and there is no damage or loss of paint except for a minor split along the grain in the lower right panel edge measuring approx. 3 in. and a very faint minor vertical surface scratch running up from the back of the rat , again for approx. 3 in., as can both be seen in the catalogue illustration. Under a raking light there is an old restored and now stable split along the grain, running through the upper part of the panel, below the jug upper right. Also visible under a raking light are some scattered very minor retouches.There is also some surface dirt and a slightly blanching varnish. Ultraviolet examination confirms the retouching to the aforementioned split and reveals further scattered retouching mainly to the darker pigments of the background. However the principle arrangement seems to be in good overall condition save some very minor areas of strengthening. 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."

The interior setting and the attention given to the still-life elements come very close to the work of Saftleven. Despite the monogram the painting remains by an as-yet unidentified artist active in his immediate circle.