Pieter Casteels III

With Arthur Tooth & Sons, London;
Anonymous sale, New York, Sotheby's, 22 May 1997, lot 24, where acquired by the present owner.

The painting is yellower in colour but cooler in tone than the catalogue illustration would suggest. It has a modern effective relining which has somewhat flattened the paint surface which is under and thick layer of glossy, yellowed varnish. The paint surface is secure, though a little abraded in areas, e.g. in the distant mountainous landscape. Some of the darker tones in the flowers and on the fruit have become rather shrunken and have lost definition. Inspection under UV light confirms that the canvas is structurely sound with no major damage. Though the varnish is rather reflective, old retouchings and strengthenings can be made out. These can be found in the leaves fruits in the lower right to add definition; for example, the scattered retouchings here and there throughout the sky and the darker tones of the painting. Removal of the present varnish and application of a new one would improve the overall tonality. This lot is offered in a carved wood frame in poor condition.
"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."