French school, 18th century

The canvas has a rather firm relining, the paint surface is dirty and the varnish rather discoloured. There is some retouching in the lower left corner visible to the naked eye, and inspection under ultraviolet light reveals further retouching scattered along all four margins, notably in the upper right corner and along a short vertical scratch, lower right, measuring approx. 4 cm. The still life itself is virtually untouched, save for some minor strengthening along the edge of one of the books and in the darks between the plums. In overall good 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 of the RKD, The Hague, for noting that the delicate blue and white bowl seems to derive from a bowl in the Breakfast still life with Oysters and an Orange by Jan Davidsz. de Heem dated to around 1665–1670, in the Staatliche Kunsthalle Karlsruhe, Karlsruhe (inv. no. 363).