Pieter Symonsz. Potter

With Alfred Brod, London, by 1957;
Mrs. H.I. Wonfor, London;
L.E.D. Bevan, Esq., C.B.E.;
By whose Beneficiaries sold, London, Christie's, 9 June 1972, lot 37.

Wiesbaden, Museum Wiesbaden, 5 Sammler - 5 Meinungen, 8 April - 27 May 1073. 

The actual painting is a bit darker in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests. The panel consists of two planks, joined horizontally. The join is reinforced with a wooden strip. A crack, spanning the panel's width (in the upper sky), is reinforced with two battons and a dovetail. Another wooden strip reinforces another crack (see below). The join and cracks, which are slightly visible to the front, are retouched, other retouchings in the sky are visible as well. The paint surface is in good and stable condition, but under a dirty and discoloured varnish layer. Inspection under UV-light confirms the aforesaid and reveals additional retouchings throughout the sky and along the abovementioned crack running from the left side (upper middle) toward the centre. Inspection of the lower half is impeded by the varnish layer. Offered in an ornate, gilt wood frame, with a few chips and damages. (JD)
"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."