Workshop of Hans von Aachen

Presented to the grandfather of the present owner by Frederick Augustus III, last King of Saxony (1865-1932), as payment in the early 1920s.

The canvas is laid on board, apparently with uneven canvas additions to the upper, lower and left hand margins no more than 8 cm. wide. The paint surface has thinned throughout, most notably in the background to the left of the sitter, and there are areas of discoloured retouching throughout: to the joins of all the additions, along the upper and lower margins, in the floor, in the background behind the sitter's head, and in the curtain and draped table. Inspection under ultraviolet light confirms these aforementioned retouchings, as well as small areas in the sitter's costume and beard. In overall moderate 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."

This painting is a workshop variant of Hans von Aachen's portrait of Matthias, Holy Roman Emperor, today in Prague Castle, Prague.¹ 1. Inv. no. O 304; see J. Jacoby, Hans von Aachen 1552-1615, Berlin 2000, p. 241, cat. no. 88, reproduced in colour plate 11.