Jan van Kessel the Elder

Anonymous sale, Zurich, Schuler, 15 September 2006, lot 3435.

"The following condition report has been provided by Henry Gentle, an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. The canvas is lined, with additions top and bottom (contemporary?). The paint surface is raised and unstable with pin-prick losses across the surface, some restored. Restorations along the raised stretcher marks are visible as is a restored loss to an area below the bird of Paradise. Some of the more delicate areas have succumbed to abrasive cleaning, mostly the shadows . There are areas of paint in good untouched condition where fine details are intact. The tonality would improve with the removal of the varnish. Offered in an antique carved and gilt wood frame, some damages and losses."
"This lot is offered for sale subject to Sotheby's Conditions of Business, which are available on request and printed in Sotheby's sale catalogues. The independent reports contained in this document are provided for prospective bidders' information only and without warranty by Sotheby's or the Seller."