Anonymous sale, London, Sotheby's, 3 June 1981, lot 87 (as "Sweerts");
With Sir Humphrey Wakefield & Partners, Ltd., London, 1981 (as by Sweerts).

Single oak panel with slight vertical bow beveled on bottom and right sides. Overall in nice state, some scattered retouches visible under UV, notably in the sitters left eye, and a few others but no major losses. In a carved wooden 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 subject is part of a sub-genre in 17^th century  Holland involving tobacco and was often used to represent Smell in series of the Five Senses.