Hieronymus Janssens, called Den Danser

Anonymous sale, London, Sotheby's, 25 June 1930, lot 12 (to Leger);
With J. Leger & Son, London;
Anonymous sale, ('The Property of a Lady'), London, Christie's, 14 May 1965, lot 101, reproduced (to Rosenthal for 950 Guineas);
Anonymous sale, London, Sotheby's, 5 March 1969, lot 135, reproduced (to Frost & Reed for £2,100);
With Frost and Reed, London;
Anonymous sale, London, Christie's, 9 February 1973, lot 29, reproduced (to Sugesa for 4,000 Guineas).

The painting is less bright in tone than the catalogue illustration would suggest. The canvas has an old relining which is stable, the paint surface has not been overly pressed and many small details still retain a delicate impasto. The paint layer is in good stable condition with a thick, only-slightly yellowed varnish. There is a small repaired tear in the upper centre measuring approximately 3 cm, and further small areas of retouching in the foliage visible to the naked eye. There is some wear in the shadowed darker areas. Inspection under Ultraviolet light reveals two campaigns of restoration, mostly consisting of scattered and cosmetic retouching. There are a number of small areas of repainting in the sky to the upper edges and in the lower right corner, and filling in the craqueleur in small localized parts around the figures. Further examination is made somewhat difficult by the aforementioned varnish. The painting is sold in a decorative gilded wood and plaster frame, showing some minor wear and tear.
"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."