Mattheus Molanus

Acquired by the great-aunt of the present owner.

The catalogue illustration is too blue in tone. The support consists of a fine copper plate which is flat and stable. The paint surface is now a little dirty and the varnish discoloured. The paint surface underneath appears to be in excellent overall condition. There are a couple of old losses along the lower edge, but otherwise no sign of any signifcant damage or repair. The varnish fluoresces somewhat under ultra violet light, but what restoration is visible seems to be confined to only tiny spot retouchings. Offered with a parcel gilt and verneere wood frame in very 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."

We are grateful to Luuk Pijl for confirming the attribution to Molanus and suggesting a date of circa 1615-1625 on the basis of digital photographs.