After Pieter Bruegel the Elder

The complete set, comprising seven engravings by Philips Galle, 1559-60, fine, uniform impressions of the first states (of two) and only states, on paper with a countermark S, each framed

Sale, Christie's London, 7 December 1977, lot 113, £4,400, where acquired by the present owner

Trimmed to or on the borderlines, in good condition, with some discoloration verso (only occasionally faintly visible recto), laid to the mount along the sheet edges, imperfections to individual sheets are: Faith (New Holl. 13) - a tiny surface loss on the second visible arch from the left, a small surface defect at upper right. Hope (New Holl. 14) - a short tear in the text at bottom, some slight surface soiling in the lower right. Charity (New Holl. 15) - a small skinned area verso (the flap of paper still in place), a tiny surface defect on the leg of the stool at right. Justice (New Holl. 16) - a short vertical printer's crease at the lower right corner. Prudence (New Holl. 17) - a tear at the centre of the lower sheet edge extending 2.8mm in to the subject, a diagonal printer's crease at the lower right of the subject, slight soiling and a small surface defect in the lower right corner, a small surface defect at the upper right. Temperance (New Holl. 19) - two tiny paper punctures in the awning of the gazebo.
"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."