Pieter Symonsz. Potter

ENGRAVED:
By Pieter Nolpe, see Ch. M. Dozy, 'Pieter Nolpe', Oud Holland, vol. XV, no. 3, 1897, p. 6, no. 162; F.W.H. Hollstein, Dutch and Flemish Etchings Engravings and Woodcuts, Amsterdam 1956, vol. XIV, p. 169, no. 9; and A. von Wurzbach, Niederländisches Künstler-Lexikon, Amsterdam 1968, vol. II, p. 355, no. 7.

The actual painting is warmer and less blue in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests. The single piece of panel is flat and stable and bevelled on all sides. Some minimal paint losses are visible along the lower edge, and in the lower right corner. Two very tiny paint losses centre left have been retouched. There's a tiny dent in the centre just below the upper edge. Otherwise, the paint surface seems to be in good condition. Particularly the brushwork in the clouds and chariot have been beautifully preserved. A few tiny retouchings can be observed in the centre and in the sky upper left. The paint surface is under a dirty layer of varnish. Inspection under ultra violet light is partly impeded by the varnish layer, but does confirm the retouchings as mentioned above. Offered in a decorative carved and gilt wood frame, in good condition. (MW)
"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.
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In 1652 Pieter Nolpe (1613/14-1652/3) engraved several paintings by other painters, including the present one. This print bears an inscription which states that the original painting was painted by Pieter Potter and that Nolpe engraved it. Apparently the print was in great demand as the second state was executed by Claes Jansz Visser III (1618-1709) and the third by P. Schenk II (1688/98-1775).¹

1.See Ch. M. Dozy, 'Pieter Nolpe', Oud Holland, vol. XV, no. 3, 1897, p. 6, no. 162.