Simon de Vos

Anonymous sale, New York, Sotheby's, 5 October 2001, lot 5 (as a pair);
Anonymous sale, London, Sotheby's, 7 December 2006, lot 133.

The actual painting is slightly warmer in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests. The single copper is generally sound if a bit irregular along the upper edge. The paint surface is secure and under a fairly clear layer of varnish. No damages are apparent to the naked eye. A few small retouchings can be observed in the curtain upper right. Inspection under UV light reveals some additional tiny scattered ones. Overall, in good condition. Offered in a plain ebonised black wood frame in good 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."

Simon de Vos studied with Cornelis de Vos (1584-1651), to whom he was not related, in Antwerp from 1615 till 1620 and spent some time in the studio of Rubens. Until 1640, he specialised in courtly genre scenes reminiscent of his Dutch contemporaries Dirk Hals (1591-1656) and Pieter Codde (1599-1678).

The present work, signed and dated 1635, is typical of that period in the artist's career. Lively and elegant figures, drinking, eating oysters and playing music, are depicted with humour, while an overweight and happily drunk satyr emphasises a more critical approach to a society of leisure and pleasure. The satyr and the lion in the foreground refer to another painting of the same subject, signed and dated 1634, sold, in these Rooms, 1 December 2009, lot 19.