Johann Christian Vollerdt

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

Thence by descent.

The paint surface is excellent condition, with an even varnish. The canvas is relined and has a light protective wax backing. There is an inverted L-shape tear measuring 11 by 4 cm in the upper right part of the canvas in the sky which has been well - repaired. The lovely composition is very real in all its detail, capturing beautifully the water's surface, the various animals, the architecture of the buildings, and the movement of the birds flying in the air. Inspection under UV light shows the above-mentioned tear as well as over- painting of an old vertical line of craquelure along the left edge in the upper half, and some more minor infilling of craquelure along the upper edge. There is also a patch of repainting by the edge in the upper right corner and a few scattered retouchings in the sky. This lot is sold in a decorative guilt frame with a few knocks on the upper and right edge.
"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."