Studio of Roelandt Savery

Schloss Blankenburg, Harz (according to an old label on the reverse);

Private collection, England, by 1988.

K. J. Müllenmeister, Roelant Savery: Die Gemälde Mit Kritischem Oeuvrekatalog, Freren 1988, p. 278, cat. no. 171 (as being in an English private collection).

The canvas has a recent and sound relining. There is an old horizontal seam in the canvas running across just above the level of the arches on the right of the picture. There is a very large (35 cm) repaired K- shaped tear in the sky in the upper right hand corner. Apart from this the overall condition of the paint surface seems good. Ultra violet light reveals scattered retouchings throughout the foreground areas, but no major damages or repairs. There has been some marginal abrasion caused by movement in the frame. Offered in a later gilt wood frame in reasonable 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."

This picture, painted in 1617, is an enlarged autograph replica of a signed painting in the Staatliche Galerie, Schloss Georgium, Dessau (inv. no. 17Z.K.852).¹

1. See K.J. Müllenmeister, Roelant Savery: Die Gemälde Mit Kritischem Oeuvrekatalog, Freren 1988, p. 279, reproduced fig. 171.