Harmen Loeding

Both canvases have fairly recent relinings. The linings are a little rigid but plenty of original impasto still remains. Both paintings are now a little dirty and covered with a thick old glossy varnish. The thickness of the varnish impedes assessment under ultra-violet light but the overall condition of both pictures appears to be very good indeed, with no signs of any major damage and with nearly all original details preserved in tact. The right hand picture has had some marginal restoration in the lower and right hand margins and to the upper left hand corner and its varnish is noticeably more scuffed than that of its companion. offered in modern plain ebonised wood frames with gilt sight edges.
"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 harmonious arrangement of these compositions confirms their original conception as a pair, the fabric and foliage counterbalancing one another, and the shared source of light falling from an unseen window in one painting into the other, where it is reflected in the glass roemer. As such, they are a very rare addition to Loeding's relatively small oeuvre.