Lot 42
  • 42

Abraham Bisschop

Estimate
12,000 - 18,000 USD
bidding is closed

Description

  • Abraham Bisschop
  • A goose, a kingsfisher, and other birds in a landscape
  • oil on canvas

Provenance

Sir Ralph-Carr Ellison, Hedgeley Hall, Powburn, Northumberland;
By whom sold ("The Property of Sir Ralph Carr-Ellison), London, Christie's, 2 December 1977, lot 86 (where incorrectly paired with another Bisschop). 

Condition

Canvas has been tightly glue relined and the surface has been pressed as a result. under a thick, shiny varnish. the paint surface has been abraded and there are noticeable thinnesses in the black pigments of the goose and throughout the browns of the landscape where the ground is showing through. some areas are better preserved such as the two birds at lower right. there are creases in the canvas that are slightly visible to naked eye, but not too distracting, around the perimeter and seem to have been caused from pressure of the stretcher. examination under UV light is difficult as the old varnish fluoresces unevenly. there are some retouches on top of the old varnish which can be seen along the four edges, and along part of one of the aforementioned creases at upper right in sky. also some other scattered retouches in sky area. overall, the condition has suffered but this painting still presents a 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.

Catalogue Note

Bisschop was an extremely versatile artist, who excelled in a broad range of painting styles, such as portraits, large scale wall decoration and bird pieces.  The present picture is a characteristic example of the latter category, in which the artist acknowledges the importance of Melchior d'Hondecoeter.  Indeed, in comparing this picture with similar works by Hondecoeter, it is clear that Bisschop adopted a number of characteristics of his predecessor's mature style.  This is especially striking in the choice of setting, and in the grouping of such species as the goose and kingfisher. 

We are grateful to Fred G. Meijer of the RKD, The Hague for supporting the attribution to Bisschop, based on photographs.