The Smyth Collection, Barrowmore Hall (from a lable affixed to the reverse𝕴).

The following condition report has been provided by Simon Parkes of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc. 502 East 74th St. New York, NY 212-734-3920, simonparkes@msn.com , an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. This painting on panel is made from two pieces of oak joined horizontally through the center. This join is quite visible and needs attention. The remainder of the paint layer is stable but quite visibly abraded and dirty. There is a good deal of wear and tear in the sky in the upper center, but the remainder of the picture is serviceable, although not in particularly good condition. This picture does require restoration but will respond very well to the right attention, fine retouching and also a proper 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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The painting shows the custom of Flemish children celebrating Whitsun by adorning a girl with pinksterbloem, forming a bridal procession and singing songs from door to door, for which they were rewarded with little gifts.

The composition derives from a design by Vinckboons, known in a number of autograph variants, the prime original being a signed painting sold in Brussels, Palais des Beaux-Arts, April 25, 1961, lot 460. Another version of this composition, also by a follower of Vinckboons, was sold in Sotheby's London, April 18, 2002, lot 1, for $68,258.

The composition was also painted in several versions by Pieter Brueghel the Younger.