Hendrik van Minderhout

The canvas has a firm relining. The paint surface is secure although somewhat abraded in the darker areas. There are no major damages but retouching work is visible to the naked eye throughout the canvas, most notably in the aforementioned darker areas and this is confirmed under UV light. Offered in an ornate gilt wood and plaster frame in fair 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."

Hendrick van Minderhout painted a number of large exotic harbour scenes such as this which follow in the tradition of Jan Baptist Wennix and Johannes Lingelbach. Minderhout often chose a low viewpoint, favouring compositions built around a central quay lavishly staffed, with Dutch vessels in the open water to the left. He likewise often incorporated Roman ruins or a steep hill to the right to create a high repoussoir and offset his scenes against a richly coloured early evening sky. Another version of this composition has appeared on the market, most recently, London Christie's, 20 July 1984, lot 174. A similarly composed harbour scene of near identical dimensions to the present picture was sold, London, Sotheby's, 19 April 1989, lot 47, for £350,000.