Dutch School, 17th Century

L.F.W. Strater, Kasteel de Wittenburg, Wassenaer, The Hague;
By whom sold, London, Christie's, 17 July 1964, lot 66 (as "A. Cuyp").

Oil on canvas, lined. The surface is somewhat stiff and flattened by this lining. Frame abrasion, as well as general abrasion to the picture surface, is visible along the upper edge as well as in the upper sections of the tree. There is a stable web of craquelure, as well as stretcher bar marks, visible over the surface of the work, though they are not at all distracting. The surface has been cleaned and, in areas, the weave of the canvas is visible. The picture presents well and the composition remains clear. Discolored retouches are visible to the naked eye, mainly in the proper right forehead and costume of the girl. Additional passages of retouching are visible in the boy's red cloak and in the black cloak and forehead of the central boy. Under UV light there are scattered retouches throughout the work. These are evenly distributed throughout the three figures and the background. Many of these retouches appear to be older, and seem to address the aforementioned thinness, as well as strengthening the shadows. A newer area of retouching is visible to the right of the peach tree leaves at lower center. Framed in a black gold and wood frame. The work presents well and is ready to hang in its current 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.
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.

An attribution to Pieter van Noort (Leiden 1622-1672 Zwolle) has been suggested.