Theodoor van Thulden

Probably Heinrich Moll, Berlin, until 1917;
His sale, Berlin, Lepke's, November 13, 1917, lot 76;
Martha Ziffer, Temple, Texas, until 1969;
By whom given to the family of the present owners in 1969.

A. Roy, Theodoor van Thulden : een zuidnederlandse barokschilder, exhibition catalogue, 's-Hertogenbosch and Strasbourg 1992, p. 204.

Old glue relining is firm and stable. under a very dirty and discolored old varnish. surface has been a bit pressed in the relining. there is what appears to be an old repaired tear in the background at upper center and some losses along right edge. area of abrasion around horse's nose. overall, figures still read well. it appears that the old varnish has reacted to, perhaps, proximity to a heat source which has affected the lower portion of the picture. in the lower canvas, the varnish has become granular and the surface appears uneven. this does not appear to have affected the paint surface, however. under ultraviolet light: it is difficult to read through the old varnish. there are some more recent retouches on top of the old varnish which can be seen on the horse's nose, in the background at center and some scattered on figures. In an elaborately carved and gilt wood frame with some losses and chips; upper right corner has been glued on.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.