Cornelis Troost

Hinged to the mount at the upper margin. Overall in good condition. There is a small tear above the roof of the cottage on the left side of the sheet. Some losses, cracks in the gouache at the lower left margin. Colours remain vibrant and strong. Sold in a gilded 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."

Troost began his career on stage, as an actor, but in 1724 he gave up this profession to dedicate himself entirely to painting.  The theatre would, however, continue to have a resounding influence on the works he produced and he is celebrated for his set designs and depictions of scenes from plays, especially in the comedic genre.

Troost was also a portraitist and genre painter.  He had a talent for producing scenes of everyday life, giving the people he depicted their own character and individuality.  His outdoor scenes are incredibly rare and although a number of landscapes are listed in the catalogues of the two sales after his death, hardly any of these are known today. This picturesque view is a wonderful, rare example of one of Troost's winter scenes.  He has captured the seasonal crisp atmosphere where skaters glide across the frozen river.  A woman peeks out the door of her cottage to watch the bustle of activity unfold while a man crosses the bridge with a bundle on his back.  The influence from the world of the stage can be seen in the theatricality of the woman with the red skirt, skating in the foreground, looking directly at the viewer.

Another fine winter landscape by Troost is in the Teyler Museum, Haarlem.¹

1. J.W. Niemeijer, Cornelis Troost 1696 - 1750, Assen 1973, p. 388, no. 874 T, reproduced