Hendrik van Cleve III

The panel is made up of a single board in good, flat condition and is beveled on all edges. The paint surface, though covered in a slightly yellowed varnish, is in overall good condition with minor losses to the sky, the right hand corner of the temple's facade and to the red tunic of the left most figure. There is minor frame abrasion on all edges, a small dark surface deposit on the right hand edge (approx 2 by 1/8 in) and two minor, fine surface scratches in the sky. Inspection under UV reveals minor retouched losses in the sky, to the king's clothing, the horse's bridle and the white shirt of the seated stone mason. There is possible further old retouching in the sky to the left side of the temple. The painting would benefit from a fresh varnish. Offered unframed.
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.

An almost identical composition was sold in 1978, under the attribution of Louis de Caullery, as one of a set of five paintings showing the Seven Wonders of the World.  The figures in the foreground, lower right, may be the temple's architect, Chersiphron and his son, Metagenes showing plans to King Croesus, founder of the Lydian Empire and Overlord of Ephesus, who sponsored its rebuilding in 550 BC .

1.  Anonymous sale, New York, Sotheby Parke Bernet 28 Novemer 1978, lot 75.