Mrs Humphrey Brand (d. 1979), Glynde Place, Sussex;
By descent to the present owner.

The canvas has an old relining. The paint surface appears to be in good condition under an old yellowed varnish. There are some signs of old lifting in the lower margin and a few tiny lost flakes. Inspection under UV is impeded by the aforementioned varnish. Offered in a gilt wood and plaster frame with some losses.
"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."

One of the Bambocciante painters in Rome during the 17th century, Willem Reuter was born in Brussels and the form of his monogram ('GR' for 'Guillaume Reuter') reminds us of his origins. Giuliano Briganti, who was the first to publish a short study on the artist in 1960, suggests that Reuter studied under Michael Sweerts in Brussels between 1656 and 1658 before heading to Rome to complete his training.¹ Sweerts' influence is here apparent in the sobriety and muted movements of the figures, which adds a certain calm to the otherwise brash popular scene iconography Reuter has adopted from the likes of Jan Miel and Cerquozzi.

We are grateful to Dott.ssa Laura Laureati for first proposing the attribution to Willem Reuter.

1. G. Briganti, "Willem Reuter" in Paragone, XI, 1960, 123, pp. 45-47.