Utrecht School, circa 1630

Count F.C. Moltke, Bregentveld, Denmark;
His sale, Copenhagen, V. Winkel & Magnussen, June 1-2, 1931, lot 18 (as Jan Van Bylert?);
Private Collection, Jerusalem;
Thence by descent.

P. Huys Janssen, Jan Van Bijlert, 1597/98 - 1671, Amsterdam 1998, p. 195, under R1.

Oil on canvas, lined. There is an addition to the canvas approximately 4 inches high that extends the entire width of the canvas along the top. The original stretcher has been expanded along the top edge to accommodate this addition. The right edge may be extended; it may be that the tacking edge is currently visible in this framing. There is undulation to the canvas and some minor bumps, potentially something between the stretcher bar and the canvas, visible along the top and right edges. The work is covered with an old, dull varnish that renders the background slightly difficult to read. Craquelure, in line with the age of the work, is visible throughout. Surface dirt and dust. Under UV light, the majority of the work is obscured by a thick green varnish, though retouching is visible along the right and upper edges. In a gold 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.