Gerard Houckgeest

Anonymous sale, Munich, Weinmüller, 26 June 1963, lot 1147.

The stable panel, bevelled on all four edges, consists of two horizontal panels joined to the reverse by a single horizontal baton. The paint surface is secure and appears to be in good condition under a glossy varnish. Inspection under UV light reveals some minor scattered retouchings most notably upper right along the lines of the panel join and lower right in a small area of the water. Offered in a stained wooden northern style 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."

Although best known as a painter of church interiors, Houckgeest seems to have painted a small number of architectural capricci, with palaces set beside canals and rivers. One such was sold London, Christie's, 21 May 1976, lot 23 and another Paris, Piasa, 13 June 1997, lot 20. The palace shown here is clearly a reflection of the new Town Hall in Amsterdam, opened in July 1655.