Attributed to Gerrit Claesz. Bleker

Baron Mayer Nathan de Rothschild;
Thence by descent to the 6th Earl of Rosebery, Mentmore;
His sale, Mentmore, Sotheby's, 25th May 1977, lot 2415;
Mr and Mrs Jack Bailey

Hannah Rothschild, Countess of Rosebery, Mentmore, 1884, vol II, p. 71, no. 42 as by Salvator Rosa, illustrated

The canvas has been relined. The paint surface is clean and secure, with the colours well-preserved. There are three raised lines, possibly old canvas joins visible on the surface of the painting each parallel to and 5 cm. in from the upper, right hand and left hand margins. Inspection under UV light, although slightly impeded by the varnish covering the work, reveals some extensive retouching to the background in two stages. Earlier retouching work can be seen to the right of the horse and it's rider and more recent retouchings fill in the space to their left. There are also retouchings along the lower right hand stretch of the aforementioned canvas join. The horse are rider show scattered spot retouchings but remain largely original. Offered in an ornate carved and gilt 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."