Studio of Frans Pourbus the Elder

The actual painting is a lot less red and more subtle in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests. The panel is cradled and seems to consist of 4 planks, joined horizontally, of which the lower plank has cracked along the lower edge, as can be seen in the catalogue illustration. The joins have been retouched and are visible to the front. The paint surface is under a fine layer of dirt and discoloured varnish. Small discoloured retouchings can be seen throughout, e.g. in the sky and brown tones. Overall, the paint surface seems to be in good condition. Inspection under UV light is partly impeded by the thick varnish layer, but does reveal the retouchings mentioned above, as well as some additional strengthening in the figure to the left foreground. Offered in a wooden gilt, classical style frame, a few damages. (ML)
"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 is a studio version of the original by Pourbus in the Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna (inv. no. 1096) ¹, which can be dated around 1570/80. Another version of this painting by Christiaen Jansz. van Bieselingen (circa 1557/8-1600), on loan to the Stedelijk Museum Het Prinsenhof, Delft, since 1909, shows the exact same composition, but is inferior in quality to the present painting.

1. See M. Haja (ed.), Die Gemäldegalerie des Kunsthistorischen Museums in Wien, Vienna 1991, plate 352, no. 1096.