Johan le Ducq

Probably Robert Child (d. 1782), 36 Berkeley Square, London, and Osterley Park House, Middlesex;
Thence by descent to the present owners.

The picture is fresher in tone and richer in colour than the catalogue illustration would suggest. Painted on a single stable panel with a very slight bow, the panel has been bevelled on the bottom and left hand sides (if looking at the picture face on). The right hand edge has been part bevelled which suggests that this edge and the unbevelled top edge may have been cut at an early stage. The paint suface is in very good condition with no apparent damage or loss of paint apart form a very minor pin hole in the lower centre, beneath the log, which is obscured by the frame. There is very minor old frame abrasion on all sides as well as surface dirt overall. There are two very minor spots of retouching lower right visible under a raking light. Examination under ulotreviolet light reveals old minor scattered retouching to the tree trunk and the leaves. There is also scattered minor cosmetic retouching to the blue of the sky and to a lesser extent the dark cloud below. There is very minor retouching to the aforementioend abrasion to the panel edge upper left and to the left hand side. There are minor areas of scattered cosmetci strengthening in the foreground i.e. the nose of the cow however proper inspection is impeded by an uneven varnish in that area. Overall the picture is in good condition with no evidence of any structural damage. Offered in a gilt wood and plaster frame in good overall 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."