German School, early 17th century

All four canvases have been relined. The paint surfaces are dirty and the varnishes are uneven and discoloured. The paintings are in overall moderate condition. Man and woman with flowers: The varnish fluoresces milkily under ultraviolet light, but does reveal some strengthening to the darks (in the leaves, for example), and repaint in the woman's hair and to the left of the man's hat. There is a small loss and potential flaking, lower left. Man and woman with dead birds: There are significant losses, flaking, and degradation of the paint surface due to the presence of bitumen, particularly along the upper and lower margins, lower left, and in the woman's skirt. There is retouching to most of these areas, as well as around some small losses in the grapes in the basket held by the woman. Man and woman with fruit: There are significant losses, flaking, and degradation of the paint surface due to the presence of bitumen throughout, notably in the corners and in the upper section of the painting. Many of these areas have been repainted, as has the woman's face and neck, in which there is potential for flaking. Man and woman with meat: The presence of bitumen has led to the degradation of the paint surface in the upper left and right corners and along the upper margin, as well as in the man's sleeve. There are significant losses and areas of repaint in these areas, in the background, and in the faces. The man's hair has also been strengthened.
"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."