Circle of Cornelis Engelbrechtsz.

The picture is up of four vertical panels. The joins have separated slightly and have been stabilised by two wooden batons and a series of wooden inserts affixed to the reverse. The painted surface has been repaired along the opening joins. There are additions to either side of the shaped top, the joins of which are visible to the naked eye. The paint surface is beginning to list slightly in many areas and requires attention and a new varnish. The old varnish is dirty and yellowed.There are small scattered discoloured retouchings throughout the composition visible to the naked eye. Details in the faces are generally well-preserved. Inspection under Ultraviolet light shows repainting to the major joins, and earlier restrengthening to the clouds along the joins where the additions were added at the top. Otherwise there are just scattered small repairs, the most concentrated area of which can be found in the drapery of the two women lower left. This lot is offered in a wood frame, of later date, in good condition. For all sales which take place on or after 1 February 2015, please note that the rate of buyer's premium for each lot (charged as a percentage of the hammer price achieved for that lot) has been revised and shall be calculated at the thresholds set out below: Buyer's premium is 25% of the hammer price up to and including £100,000; Buyer's premium is 20% of the hammer price on any amount in excess of £100, 000 up to and including £1,800,000; Buyer's premium is 12% of the hammer price on any amount in excess of £1,800,000. As stated above, the revised thresholds are effective as of 1 February 2015.
"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."