Circle of Rembrandt Harmensz. van Rijn

Probably Haynes collection, London;
Probably by whom sold, London, Christie's, 11 April 1832, lot 68 (as by Jan Victors, "Portrait of a Man in a yellow dress, holding an Apple”), to Bentley;
G.S. Sedgwick, England;
Michael Lawrence Vermeer, Atlanta. 

There is an old glue relining. The paint surface is under a very dirty and discolored old varnish. There is overall very good retention of the paint surface with nice preservation of impasto. There is an area of paint loss on sleeve at middle right, and several losses at lower right corner. At upper right edge, the canvas is coming away from the stretcher. Some minor surface scuffs here and there. The thick dirty varnish makes it very difficult to read under ultraviolet light. There is a small retouch in the background above his outstretched arm; there could be others but it is impossible to see through the old varnish. This painting would benefit from a light cleaning and sensitive restoration which should improve the appearance. Offered in a carved and gilt wood and plaster frame with some nicks and losses.
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.