Petrus van Schendel

Mr James Moris Esq., 17 Cadogan Square, London
Sale: Christie's, London, 3 March 1883, lot 50 (as Dutch Market scene; candlelight)
Private Collection; (sale: Christie's, Amsterdam, 28 October 2003, lot 243)
MacConnal-Mason Ltd., London
Purchased from the above by the present owner

The panel is flat, stable and not cradled. As is typical for works by van Schendel, the surface is difficult to read under ultra-violet light as the old varnish layers fluoresce unevenly and opaquely in places, however only minor signs of retouching are clearly visible, notably spots at the framing edges and a number of tiny pinhead-sized spots of scattered cosmetic retouching. This work is in good condition, and is clean and ready to hang. The colours in reality are less of a yellow-red than in the catalogue illustration. Presented in a decorative gilt 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. 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."

Painted circa 1864.