Dutch School, 18th century

The following condition report has been provided by Simon Parkes of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc. 502 East 74th St. New York, NY 212-734-3920, simonparkes@msn.com , an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. This painting has been fairly recently restored and could be hung as is. The canvas has been lined. The paint layer has been cleaned, varnished and retouched. The retouches are fairly visible under ultraviolet light addressing some cracking in the beard and cloak of the right hand dwarf. There are other more isolated and less numerous restorations in the little girl on the left and in the background above the central figures. Remnants of old varnish are also visible under ultraviolet light. However, the condition in general is very respectable and no further attention is recommended.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.