Domenicus van Wijnen, called Ascanius

Anonymous sale, New York, Sotheby's, 17 January 1992, lot 43 (as attributed to Domenicus van Wijnen);
Private collection, France.

The canvas has been relined, the paint surface is relatively clean and the varnish is clear and even. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals spot retouching throughout, largely to disguise the appearance of craquelure, most notably in the dress of the figures on the left, in the upper left corner and upper margin, in the lower half of the hanged man and around his head, and in the two foremost figures on the ground. There is a concentrated area of horizontal retouching, measuring approx. 0.5 by 5cm, in the right leg of the kneeling figure in the foreground. In overall good condition. Offered in a gilt wood frame with a few minor knocks.
"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."

Little is known about Domenicus van Wijnen other than that he was a pupil of the painter and engraver Willem Doudijns in The Hague and that he is said to have lived in Rome from 1680–1690. In Rome he joined the Bentvueghels, also known as the Schildersbent, a society of Netherlandish artists in Rome. Upon his initiation into the Schildersbent he was given the bent name ‘Ascanius’, a reference to the son of the Trojan hero Aeneas. Of the dozen or so known paintings ascribed to Wijnen, an unusual proportion depict scenes of the supernatural and of witchcraft, often by moonlight; such themes popularised by the works of Salvator Rosa, whose engravings were widely admired during the second half of the 17th century.