Hendrick Goltzius

Engravings, 1580, two plates, fine impressions printed on silk, with depth and contrasts, Holl. 184 fifth (final) state, Holl. 185 second state (of three)

Holl. 184 and 185 ex coll. Dukes of Arenberg (L. 567)

Holl. 184: Trimmed just outside the borderline, trimmed to or on the borderline at left and in places at right, an imperfection in the printing on the silk at lower left, a few extremely pale brown stains, supported with a thin sheet of laid paper, unframed. Holl. 185: Trimmed just outside the borderline, to or on the borderline at right, pale brown (glue?) stains along edges of sheet (associated with the way it was previously attached), a few other extremely pale brown stains in the background, frayed silk at right edge, unframed.
"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."

Printing on silk was a common practice during this period with such works presented to the sitters or the States General in the Dutch Repulic. This official approval board granted privileges that served as a protection of the specific plate and the printing and selling of that plate. Several impressions of Goltzius' works on silk have been recorded.