Flemish School, 17th Century

Anonymous sale, Vienna, Dorotheum, 14 April 2005, lot 115 (as Dutch School, 17th Century);
Anonymous sale, New York, Sotheby's, 18 May 2006, lot 117 (as attributed to Jan de Bray);
There acquired by the present collector. 

The canvas is lined. Overall the image reads well, however, there is some thinness noticeable in his hair, especially on the right side. Minor scuff marks are along the edges of the painting, which were probably caused by old frame rubbing. At the lower left and right quadrant and along the left side of the background there are a few minor irregularities in the varnish as seen with the catalogue image. Inspection under UV shows some scattered retouching of different sizes to the background, mostly concentrated on the left side. The sitter has small repaints applied throughout the collar, hair, and scattered along his black robe and hand. The picture could be hung as is, but some improvement to the varnish could improve its appearance. It is presented in a carved, dark 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.