Pieter Mulier the Elder

With Gebr Douwes, Amsterdam;
From whom acquired by the present owner in January 1987.

The panel is constructed from a single, uncradled plank, which is flat and stable. The paint surface is clean and the varnish is clear and even. The ground of the painting is visible throughout, and details set against they sky are rather thinner than those in the foreground, which remain well-preserved, particularly lower right. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals scattered spot retouching throughout the sky, largely following the vertical grain of the wood, as well as scattered along the left and lower margins. There is also retouching to a small loss in the centre of the water, as well as to three superficial vertical surface scratches, the largest of which measures approx. 2.5 cm.; these are upper left and just below on the left margin, and in the water, lower left. In overall fair condition, without a need for any further intervention.
"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."

This is a highly characteristic work by the Haarlem artist Pieter Mulier, whose strongly tonal sea pieces painted almost entirely in shades of grey, are characterized by a warm pink ground.