Follower of Bartholomaeus Spranger

The stable and uncradled panel appears to be comprised of two vertical boards joined at center and has a slight vertical bow. Overall the image reads well beneath a clear varnish. There is a faint vertical crack that runs through the height of the panel along the right edge with a few scattered spots concentrated near the upper and lower edge. The aforementioned join is visible to the naked eye. Inspection under UV reveals a milky varnish with some retouching to address the join and vertical cracks. The figures also have scattered retouches throughout their body, one of the most prominent being along Mars's leg at right. Many of the retouches have slightly discolored and are visible to the naked eye. The painting is offered in a carved, dark wood frame.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This painting derives from an engraving Hendrick Goltzius made after Bartholomeus Spranger circa 1588 (fig. 1).¹ 1. H. Leeflang & G. Luijten, Goltzius-Studies: Hendrick Goltzius (1558-1617), Netherlands 2003, pp. 170-174, cat. no. 45, reproduced p. 171, fig. 81.