Paul de Vos

Acquired by the Conde de Casa Rojas during the early part of the 20th century;
Thence by family descent.

The canvas has a firm relining, which has not overly flattened the paint surface - the scumbling in the clouds, for instance, is still apparent. The paint surface is slightly dirty and the varnish rather uneven. There are some hairs of the brush still present in the paint. There are some superficial surface scratches: in the lower part of the eagle's left wing, measuring approximately 7 cm. and a smaller one under its right talon; and one lower right, measuring approximately 30 cm. There is a faintly visible horizontal line which runs the width of the canvas, about a quarter of the way from the top, indicating a seam. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals restoration to much of the seam join and to a vertical stretcher mark running down the right side of the canvas. Much of the periphery of the painting has been retouched, particularly on the left margin and in the corners. Scattered areas of the sky have been strengthened and there are three restored patches surrounding the tail of the bird in flight, the largest of which measures approximately 20 by 10 cm. Some of the plumage of the two white peacocks has been strengthened, but the birds themselves remain largely untouched. In fair overall 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 Fred G. Meijer for confirming the attribution to Paul de Vos upon inspection of photographs.