Richard Brakenburg

Acquired by the parents of the present owners in 1999.

The picture is more muted in tone and less acidic in colour than the catalogue illustration suggests. The canvas appears not to have been lined and the paint surface is in good overall condition with no damage or loss of paint visible to the naked eye. There is a fine crazed varnish overall. Examination under ultraviolet reveals the presence of a discoloured varnish and scattered old very minor cosmetic retouchings to the background and canvas edge. There are further very minor retouchings and strengthenings to the assorted foreground objects and to the costumes of the central group i.e. the alchemists right sleeve. There is a small restored damage measuring approx. 1 in. in the lower right above the jar. There are two further minor repaired tears in the peripheries lower lower left. The first runs for approx 3 in. from the table leg to the leaning man's knees, the second, parallel to this, runs horizontally for approx. 2 in. through his back most ankle and this corresponds to a small patch on the reverse. There is also an old minor area of damage in the child's head measuring approx. 1/2 in. Overall though, the picture has been well restored and is in good ready to hang condition. Offered in a decorative gilt wood and plaster black painted 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."