FOLLOWER OF REMBRANDT HARMENSZ. VAN RIJN | Portrait of a bearded man wearing a black cap and holding a staff

Bonython family, Adelaide, South Australia;
Thence by descent.

The panel is uncradled, and formed of three vertical planks, with the joins visible from the front under raking light. The paint surface is dirty, and the varnish is discoloured. Under raking light it is also possible to discern areas of past tenting, most notably in the upper half of the background, as well as in the sitter's hair just to the right of his face. There is a spot of paint loss in the figure's moustache (visible in the catalogue illustration), and a few further pin-prick losses scattered throughout, as well as an old, small knock in the panel visible along the lower quarter of the right margin. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals a thick, uneven varnish which fluoresces opaquely, but reveals some retouchings: to some of the aforementioned areas of tenting in the upper right quadrant, and small spots scattered in the sitter's hair and face, and the background.
"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 depiction of an old, bearded man, gazing wistfully out at the viewer, shares many characteristics with the work of Pieter Harmensz. Verelst (circa 1618 - after 1668) who, particularly in his portraits, followed the style of character studies pioneered by Rembrandt. In the large black pupils, highlight on the nose and rendering of the beard, this painting may be compared to Verelst's portraits of old men, sold London, Sotheby's, 22 April 2009, lot 129 and London, Christie's, 10 July 2009, lot 68. The initials 'FB' inscribed on the clasp of the man's cloak appear to be original to the painting.