Anonymous sale ("The Property of a Gentleman"), London, Christie's, 10 April 1987, lot 38 (as by Vermeyen).

New Orleans 1997, cat. no. 59 (as by Vermeyen).

H.J. Horn, Jan Cornelisz. Vermeyen, painter of Charles V and his conquest of Tunis: paintings, etchings, drawings, cartoons & tapestries, Doornspijk 1989, vol. I, p. 106, note 483, reproduced vol. II, fig. A141 (as a "superior shop work;" known from a photograph only).

The panel is flat and made up of two vertical boards, which is beveled along all four edges. Modern additions of approximately a quarter of an inch have been applied along the edges and the upper corners appear to have been reinforced. The paint surface is in good condition with no damages visible to the naked eye. There is a fine crack at the panel join, running vertically from the lower edge approximately 3 in. upwards. Inspection under ultraviolet does not provide a clear reading though there appears to be some minor retouching in the beard, applied to finely to the aforementioned crack and further very minor retouches to the flesh tones below and above the eye and in the eyebrow. These have been very sensitively applied. The painting is ready to hang in its present state and requires no further work. Offered in a decoratively carved black wood 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.