Gerard Pietersz. van Zijl

With Houthakker, Amsterdam (according to a label on the reverse).

The canvas has an old relining and an old uneven varnish. There is some minor flaking in three places: on the lady's head, down the brown wall to the left, and in the lower right hand corner. There are four tiny specks of lost paint in the following places: on the right hand side of the lady's head, on the back of her neck, on her sleeve and in her skirt. The creases and lustre of the fabric in the lady's skirt, and the detail of the tailoring in her sleeve are very lovely. The coat of the dog in the foreground retains a crispness of detail, enhancing the alert and lively depiction of the animal listening to the concert.The background figures are sinking slightly into the brown-coloured surroundings, and would benefit from a light surface clean to remove the dirt. Inspection under UV light reveals a very blotchy varnish, which makes it difficult to determine where and how the picture has been restored. There appears to be a small repair upper left corner and also to the lady's ear. Otherwise just random tiny spots of old cosmetic retouchings throughout. This lot is offered in a gilt frame, moulded with a swirling decoration, there are eight chips in the gold paint, which can all easily be painted over.
"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 comparable painting by Van Zijll was sold, Christie's, London, 10 July 1987, lot 1.