Rombout van Troyen

In the family of the present owner since at least the 1950s.

The actual painting is a lot deeper and less red in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests. The single panel is flat and stable and bevelled on the upper, lower and right sides, and very lightly bevelled on the left side. The paint layer is slightly abraded in the central background, in the background figures, and in the dark blue tones of the draperies of the figures in the foreground. Otherwise, the paint surface seems to be in very good condition. Small spots of retouching can be observed in the rocks in the foreground, in the sky centre right, and in the rock formations centre left. The paint surface is covered with a thick and glossy layer of varnish. Inspection under Ultra-Violet light confirms the aforementioned retouchings and reveals additional tiny scattered retouchings in the small figures in the background, in the grotto on the right, and in the standing woman on the right. Offered in a decorative gilt wood frame with elaborate plaster decorations, with a few losses. (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."