Manner of Carle van Loo

The pictures are slightly darker in tone than the catalogue illustration would suggest. All the canvases have been lined and all are offered in decorative over mantle frames in good overall condition. The first (an allegory of architecture, as illustrated in the catalogue) is in fair condition with no apparent damage or loss of paint but the varnish and surface dirt, in addition to retouching to an old craquelure, has pooled I the lighter pigments of the script. Examination under ultraviolet reveals scattered retouching to old craquelure, and some old restored paint losses lower right and centre left. The second (an allegory of literature) is in fair condition, very dirty with a discoloured varnish overall. There are 2 flecks of retouching in the sky upper left and to the upper stretcher bar mark and also on close inspection there is evidence of old good restoration to an old area of damage on the right running from the lower canvas edge up to the top of the harp. Examination under ultraviolet reveals the varnish which impedes inspection. The third (an allegory of music) is again in fair condition but it is not as dirty as the other two. There is no apparent damage of loss of paint except for some now stable paint flaking and retouching to 2 well restored small areas of damage, the first in the right hand cherub’s armpit and the second in the head above the left hand cherub. There are also some old flecks of very minor retouching in the lower left. Examination under ultraviolet confirms the aforementioned retouching and reveals some further scattered minor cosmetic flecks of retouching as well as some very minor strengthening to the left hand cherub’s hair.
"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."