MAURITS VAN DEN KERKHOFF | A Javanese Village with a Volcano Beyond, Thought to be Mount Semeru

Sale: Christie's, Amsterdam, 13 April 2010, lot 167

The panel is flat, even, and ensuring a stable support. There is a fine pattern of craquelure in the sky - however, this appears to be stable. Some frame rubbing with minor spots of paint loss is visible in the upper part of the left framing edge and in the lower framing edge, notably within and around the signature. Inspection under ultra-violet light reveals an ever layer of residual varnish but not visible sign of retouching. This work might benefit from a light surface clean but it otherwise in overall good condition. Presented in a gilt 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. 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 Tropenmuseum in Amsterdam holds some twelve works by Kerkhoff depicting the environs of Malang in Eastern Java, which is apparently also the setting for the present work. Van den Kerkhoff was the administrator of a tobacco plantation in the region.