Flemish School 17th Century

Vanderbilt Collection, Newport, Rhode Island, until 1982

Relined. under a thick, uneven old varnish. there is a central canas seam or crease which runs from top to bottom edges through center of composition (this is slightly visible in catalogue photograph, but is more prominent when viewing actual painting). There is another noticeable vertical crease in yellow drapery of anel which continues up into fce and into sky at upper edge (this is not visible in catalogue photograph). scattered old retouches and old repaired tears can be seen with naked eye, such as a crudely repaired diagonal tear which runs through wing and into hair and cheek of central seated figure, and another crudely repaired vertical tear to the left of Abraham's head. scattered thinnesses are noticeable mostly in background, but some in yellow drapery of angel. despite all this, there are still good passages of paint in most of the figures and in still life elements, and overall the painting reads well and presents a strong image. ultraviolet light reveals aforementioned old repairs and retouches; also there are some retouches to the folds of angels yellow drapery. most of the flesh tones look good. this painting has not been attended to in a long time and would benefit from sensitive restoration; a readdreassing of the old crudely done repairs which could be done better would improve the appearance. In a plain carved and gilt wood frame with some nicks and losses to gilding.
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.