Jakob Bogdány

Canvas has been laid down on wood. the paint surface in general has been pressed and abrasion is noticeable throughout the landscape and background. the birds, dogs and still life elements have been better retained with better preservation of detail and coloration. examination under UV shows scattered retouching in background areas including sky, foliage and tree trunks. animals and still life are better with only a few small retouches here and there. overall, painting still presents a very decorative image. Offered in a carved and gilt wood frame.
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.

Born in Hungary in 1660, Bogdani spent most of his artistic career outside of his native land; by 1684 he was in Amsterdam, and by 1688 he was settled in London.  He would remain in England for the rest of his life, painting elaborate and highly decorative compositions that incorporated flowers and exotic bird species, of which the present picture is a fine example. Throughout his career, Bogdani received commissions from some of the leading aristocratic collectors of the seventeenth century, such as the decoration for Queen Mary II of her Looking-glass Closet in the Water Gallery at Hampton Court, London.