JAN JOSEFSZ. VAN GOYEN | A river landscape with fishermen in boats, before a ruined tower

huile sur toile

With Appleby, London, 1955;
With Jean-François Heim, Paris, 1956;
From whom acquired by the family of the present owner.

H.-U. Beck, Jan Van Goyen (1596–1656), vol. II, Amsterdam 1973, p. 329, cat. no. 726, reproduced (as monogrammed lower left on the boat).

The canvas has a firm re-lining. The paint has been applied in thin washes which over time have become translucent so that the canvas weave shows through. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals a careful attempt to disguise the wear in areas of the sky, notably upper right and along the left-hand side. There are in addition a series of scattered, old repaired damages of 5 cm. or longer, chiefly clustered along the left-hand side in the sky, and again in the upper centre of the picture. The more thickly painted areas have survived almost entirely intact and here restoration is minimal. The restoration has been carefully carried out, is not obstructive to the naked eye, and the picture will not require further attention. Offered in a carved and gilt wood frame in 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."