JAN JOSEF HOREMANS THE YOUNGER | A music party on a terrace

In the possession of the family of the present owner for at least a century.

The panel is cradled, flat and stable. There are two repaired splits which run the width of the panel through the centre, a further crack, which runs from the centre of the right margin, 38 cm. long (visible in the catalogue illustration), and a smaller repaired crack running from below the centre of the right margin, 12 cm long. There is also some evidence of tenting in the paint surface in the red curtain, upper right. The paint surface is otherwise slightly dirty, and the varnish slightly discoloured. There are small, scattered retouchings visible to the naked eye throughout the grey brickwork and in the foreground. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals retouching along the aforementioned splits, and to some small areas of loss in the red curtain. There may also be an old campaign of retouching scattered in some of the figures' flesh tones, but the painting appears otherwise largely untouched. Offered in a carved and gilt wood frame with some losses.
"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."