After Philips Wouwerman, 18th Century

This work was originally made up of two panels. The lighter coloured squares at intervals along the back of the work are the unvarnished areas where 'buttons', used to stabilize movement at the join, were once attached. A further line of half-sized squares along the upper edge show that there was previously a break in the wood, which was also repaired and stabilized using such 'buttons'. The reattached part of the upper panel has since been removed altogether, but this indicates that the sky would have originally extended more than is now the case. The panel is slightly convex bow but there are no signs of major splits in the wood. The paint surface is in good condition, with only a tiny split in the wood 3/4 of way up, starting from the right hand edge, and measuring a few centimetres only. Inspection under UV light shows some small oing over of the dark countrous of figures and animals, touches of white highlights on the horse at the centre. Under UV light the varnish appears milky which makes retouchings more difficult to see clearly. This lot is offered in a gilt decroative frame in very good condition.
"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."

A copy in reverse, probably 18th century in date, of one of Wouwerman's late works, of larger dimensions, now in a private collection: see B. Schumacher, Philips Wouwermans: The Horse Painter of the Golden Age, Doornspijk 2006, vol. I, cat. no. A128, reproduced vol. II, fig. no. 121.