Workshop of Cornelis Cornelisz. van Haarlem

Schloss Reinhardtshausen, Erbach, inv. no. 218;
With L.A. Latteier, Augsburg, 1970;
Anonymous sale, Amsterdam, P. Brandt, 11 May 1971, lot 70;
Anonymous sale, Vienna, Dorotheum, 22 June 1976, lot 50.

P. van Thiel, Cornelis Cornelisz van Haarlem, Doornspijk 1999, p. 378, cat. no. 219, version 4, reproduced plate 145.

The canvas has an old relining. The paint surface, which has been flattened as a result, is secure and stable, although thin in the flesh tones. The paint surface is dirty but this seems to be superficial and should respond well to cleaning. Underneath the layer of dirt the colours are rich and vibrant. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals minor retouching to the right cheek and the bridge of the nose of the lady and to the eye and nose of the man at the right. Small scattered retouchings can be seen at the lower edge and lower right edge, as well as some minor and localised retouchings to the background. Overall, the work is largely free of retouchings. The work is offered in a carved wood frame with carved floral decoration, with a few minor knocks and losses.
"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."

Pieter van Thiel lists the present work as a replica or contemporary copy of the primary version, signed and dated 1597, and formerly with Gebr. Douwes, Amsterdam (see Literature, p. 377, cat. no. 219, reproduced plate 141).