Flemish School, 17th Century

Private collection, Oslo.

In excellent condition. The panel has an old cradle and is flat and stable. The paint surface is in very good condition throughout, only slightly worn in the sky. A restored horizontal split runs in the from the lower right hand margin reaching to the middle, but apart from this restoration is minimal.
"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."

The painting is an extended adaptation, with numerous variants, of Frans Francken's prototype, painted with Abraham Govaerts, formerly with the Galerie d'Art St Honoré in Paris.¹ While the figures of Anthony and Cleopatra are broadly similar to the prototype, those around them have been modified considerably, while the tree to the far right of the prototype has been omitted here.  

1. See U. Härting, Frans Francken der Jüngere, Freren 1989, pp. 339–40, cat. no. 347, reproduced in colour plate 32.