English School, first quarter of the 17th Century

The catalogue illustration is representative for the actual painting. The panel seems to consist of one plank and is unbevelled. The panel has been cradled. The paint surface is slightly abraded in the background and the woodgrain is clearly visible in places. Small discoloured retouchings, relating to older paint losses can be observed in the figure's neck, in both hands, and in the lace, e.g. just above the lower edge, in the lower centre right and lower centre left. The paint surface is covered with a dull and dirty layer of varnish. Inspection under ultra violet light confirms the aforesaid retouches, and reveals additional retouchings in the dress in the lower right corner, in the pearls, and in the lace on the left, as well as more recent retouchings in the figure's hair, both left and right. Furthermore, inspection under ultra violet light reveals that the varnish has been unevenly cleaned. Offered in a decorative carved 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.
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."

This charming portrait of a young woman is likely to be an English portrait, as can be supported by both her appearance and her particular costume. The woman is wearing a beautifully laced night-rail, a garment which was worn in bed during 'up-sittings' and which doubled as an expensive informal garment during the daytime. The English tendril-pattern of her dress, the wide sleeves, and the straight low neckline, suggest a date circa 1630, as do her hairdo and her tight pearl-necklace. However, by this date the delicate reticella lace of her night-rail would have already been out of fashion, which suggests a date between 1610 and 1620.

We are grateful to Dr. Marieke de Winkel for her assistance in cataloguing this lot.