CIRCLE OF JACOB FRANSZ. VAN DER MERCK | A young man as a shepherd in fancy dress

Collection of the painter André-Paul Leroux (1870-1950), Fécamp, Normandy;
Purchased directly to Mr. Leroux ;
Private collection, Normandy.

A l’œil nu : Le tableau se présente dans un état de conservation satisfaisant. Il est constitué d’une unique planche de bois de chêne, biseautée sur trois de ses côtés au revers (non biseautée sur le côté gauche) ; on remarque un trou traversant tout le panneau au centre du bord supérieur (pour le suspendre !). On observe des griffures, quelques petits trous et des griffures de surface sur toute la surface. La surface picturale est globalement un peu mince. A la lampe UV : La couche de vernis fluoresce complètement et ne montre que quelques traces d’anciennes retouches et reprises sous-jacentes. Vendu dans un cadre en bois plein doré, avec une vitre, en bon état. Overall the painting is in a fair condition. Under the naked eye : Painted on a single piece of oak panel, which is bevelled on three sides (not bevelled on the left side); there is a hole all the way through the panel in the centre of the top edge (to hang it!). Scratches, little indents and surface scratches throughout. The painted surface has grown somewhat thin overall. Under UV light : The varnish layer fluoresces completely and shows just some traces of old retouching and strengthening vaguely underneath. Offered with a plain giltwood frame, including a glass front, in nice 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 Dr. Fred G. Meijer for his help in cataloguing this lot.