Follower of Frans Floris the Elder

The support consists of three vertical panels which have been joined to the reverse. The left hand panel has completely split away from the other two and is only held in place by the frame. There are scattered areas of paint loss throughout, in particular in the lower left corner and along the right hand join at the bottom. There are two vertical splits staring from the bottom edge, one of approx 10 cm lower left and another of approx 5 cm lower right. Overall the paint surface is fairly abraded and under a dirty old varnish which impedes thorough inspection under UV light although scattered older and more recent retouchings do fluoresce. Offered in a wood and gold paint frame with some knocks.
"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."

The pose and dress of the daughter embraced by Lot in the present painting derives from Floris' painting of the same subject in the Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg (see C. van de Velde, Frans Floris; Leven en Werken, Brussels 1975, vol. I, pp. 189-90, cat. no. 38, illustrated vol. II, pl. 9).