Aernout Smit

Probably Waldemar Lobo da Silveira, Count of Oriola (1854–1910), Schloss Büdesheim, Upper Hesse;
From whom acquired, as part of the collection at Schloss Büdesheim, by the State of Hesse, 1910;
By whom sold, Frankfurt, Hugo Helbing, 23 May 1933, lot 186 (as Ludolf Backhuyzen);
Anonymous sale, Brunswick, Eduard Hünerberg, 7–8 September 1950, lot 157 (as Ludolf Backhuysen);
Anonymous sale, Cologne, Lempertz, 6 December 1952, lot 1155 (as Ludolf Backhuyzen).

The following condition report is provided by Hamish Dewar who is an external specialist and not an employee of Sotheby's: The canvas is lined. The paint surface is secure. The painting has an uneven and has a discoloured varnish layer. Discoloured retouchings are visible in natural light mainly in the sky. Inspection under ultra-violet light shows an opaque and discoloured varnish layer and scattered retouchings throughout. Overall the painting is in 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. 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."

We are grateful to Dr. Gerlinde de Beer for confirming the attribution to Aernout Smit on the basis of a photograph.