Willem van de Velde the Younger

Acquired by Mr. William Tennant circa 1795, and by descent;
Mr. Hugh Buchanan, Pusey, Oxfordshire.

The painting is slightly lighter in tone than the catalogue illustration would suggest but the colours are representative. The signed and dates canvas has been relined and the paint surface appears to be in good overall condition with no apparent damage or loss of paint, however the paint has been slightly flattened in certain places as a consequence of the relining. Examination under Ultraviolet light reveals scattered retouching in the sky which includes very minor areas of retouching to an old right hand stretcher bar mark. There is also some scattered minor strengthening to the boats and a small area of retouching measuring approximately 3 inches to a an area of restored damage at the back of the foremost sailing ship. However that apart the canvas apperas to be in good structurally sound condition. 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."

As the date suggests, and in view of the English vessel and flag seen in starboard quarter view in the centre of the composition, this painting belongs to the English period of Van de Velde. As Dr. Kelch has pointed out, the freedom and directness of handling as well as the palette dominated by warm brownish hues is typical for the oil sketches that Van de Velde produced in this period.

We are grateful to Dr. Jan Kelch for endorsing the attribution to Willem van de Velde the Younger.