Frans Francken the Younger and Studio

Oil on copper with a wooden cradle. The copper is relatively flat though it does bump slightly in the upper half above the group of figures and there is some minor bending at the corners. The surface is an overall good condition. There is evidence of loss and retouching along the extreme edges, at the upper right corner, in the drapery above Aaron and in Aaron green look as well as at his knee. Scattered areas of retouching or shinier than the rest of the picture visible especially in the upper left quadrant. Under UV light, scattered spots of retouching are visible in the sky and in the canopy above Aaron. Additional scattered spots are visible to the right of Aaron's face, in the previously mentioned retouched losses and Aaron's cloak and knee. There is some potential strengthening chew the stool at lower left though overall the piece is in generally 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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Dr. Ursula Härting believes this work painting to be by Frans Francken the Younger and Studio, based on photographs. She dates it to circa 1630, and compares it to Francken's David and Abigail (see U. Härting, Frans Francken der Jüngere (1581-1642), Freren 1989, p. 245, cat. nos. 64-67).