David de Coninck

Anonymous sale, Milan, Sotheby's, 14 June 2011, lot 62, as Giovanni Crivelli, called Crivellino.

The catalogue illustration are faithful to the paintings. These large unframed canvases have old but good relinings and appear to the naked eye to be in good condition, under a slightly discoloured varnish. Some minor dsicoloured retouchings can be seen, more so in the painting with ducks where this often appears to have been to fill in the craquelure which arguably was not necessary. Most of the paint surfaces otherwise appear to be in good condition. Inspection under UV light confirms the aforementioned minor retouchings. The painting with ducks has a few further areas of retouching lower left and lower right, and some strengtheings in the darker tones. The good original condition of most parts of the paintings is confirmed.
"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."

The attribution has been kindly endorsed by Fred Meijer following first-hand inspection. The former painting is close in composition to a work by de Coninck sold The Hague, Koninklijke Kunstzaal Kleykamp, 5 May 1919, lot 263, though in reverse.