Delft School, 1632

Anonymous sale, New York, Christie's, 11 November 1978, lot 195, where acquired by a private collector (as attributed to Mierevelt);
Thence by descent to the present collector.

Male portrait: Oil on cradled panel. Remnants of a panel crack are visible in the background above the figure's head. While the picture surface is thin in areas, overall the picture is clean, fresh, and presents very well. Under UV light, the majority of the right background fluoresces. Retouching to the subject's lace collar, as well as the contours of his face and hair. Minor scattered retouching in the background; a 3-inch diameter circle of retouching in the background below the inscription at left. The work should be hung as is. In a black wood frame. Female portrait: Oil on cradled panel. The surface, which is thin especially in the background, is in generally good condition. The work appears clean and fresh. Under UV light, there are scattered retouches throughout the background. Retouching along the edges of the subject's face and lace collar and to strengthen the details and dark pigment of her costume. Very fine minor retouches are visible in the subjects face and along her hairline and the contours of her hair. The work presents well and should be hung as is. In a black wood frame.
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.