Frans Snyders and after Theodoor van Thulden

The canvas is unlined. A restored vertical tear of approx 30 cm. lower centre has been patched to the reverse. There is also a small patched hole upper left of approx 10 cm. lower left and a further small vertical tear of approx 6 cm. lower right. There are some further minor scattered damages. The painting would benefit from being relined and cleaned. There appears to be some scattered retouchings and strengthenings particularly along the areas of damage, although thorough inspection under UV light is impeded by the varnish. Despite the aforementioned damages the paint surface is secured by the somewhat dirty and discoloured varnish. Offered in a wood and plaster frame wiht dmaages on all sides
"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."

A 19th-century copy after the original in the Museo del Prado, Madrid (see S. Koslow, Snyders, Antwerp 1995, p. 209, reproduced).

Orpheus, was the son of  Calliope (meaning 'beautiful voiced', who was the muse of epic poetry) and the King of Thrace (or Apollo in other sources). He was the inventor of the lyre and with his sublime music he was able to charm the elements, the beasts of the earth, and birds of the sky, and even the Gods themselves.

Through his music he even moved the cold heart of Pluto prompting him to release Orpheus's wife Eurydice from Hades. The one condition being that Orpheus did not look at her before they had returned to the light of day. Orpheus, breaking this agreement and looking back towards her, Leading to Eurydice being forced to return to the underworld. His grief was so strong he spurned other women, preferring only to love young youths and was to meet his demise by being torn limb from limb by the scorned women of Thrace.