ATTRIBUTED TO HERMAN VAN SWANEVELT | Landscape with a piping herdsman and his cattle beside a lake

In the collection of the family of the present owner for at least two generations.

The canvas is lined. The paint surface is slightly dirty and the varnish is clear and even. The network of craquelure has become more pronounced in the darkest pigments. The dark background has become slightly visible in certain areas, for example in the branches, centre, and in the sky above them. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals scattered fine lines of retouching throughout the sky as well as a more concentrated area above the central tree, to the right of it, and to a restored damage just below its lower branches. There are further scattered retouchings in the trees on the right and in the foreground, as well as to a small repaired damage in the goat lower centre. In overall good condition, offered in a carved and gold painted frame in very good 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. 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."