Johann Christian Vollerdt

Commissoned directly from the artist by Cornelis Calkoen (1696-1764);

Thence by descent.

The paint surface is in good condition, with paint layer thick, and colours and details still vibrant and highly enjoyable. The canvas has a recent relining and a thinly applied protective wax backing. There is a faint craquelure beginning across the center of the canvas due to age. Inspection under Ultraviolet light reveals gentle restructuring in the sky in the center as well as over- painting of old craquelure along the upper edge and on the right of the sky. There are small areas of repair along the lower edge and in the upper left corner. Otherwise the details are wonderfully-preserved, for example the ship on the water in the distance, the foliage, the well-pbserved masonry of the farmhouse on the hill. Even tiniest details like the dog on the cliff are stunningly sharp. This lot is sold in a moulded decorative frame with some chipped gilding on the right edge, but structurally sound. The frame matches that of lots 49, 52,and 53.
"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."