Willem van Mieris

Light horizontal fold across centre. Light creases towards lower corners. Two very small repaired tears at left edge. One or two pinholes towards top. Some light staining and surface dirt, but overall condition still reasonably good and strong.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Willem van Mieris was the son and pupil of Frans van Mieris the Elder, and carried forward his father's 'fine painting' tradition into the 18th century, but recast in the classicising style that became increasingly prevalent in Dutch history painting from the later 17th century on.  Albert Elen has kindly informed us that he believes this is an early work by the artist, executed before 1700. 

Although the male figure carries a quiver of arrows on his back, which is not normally seen in depictions of the story of Hercules and Omphale, it seems likely that this is nonetheless the subject depicted here.