Private collection, Belgium.

A l’œil nu : Par rapport à l’illustration qui figure au catalogue, les couleurs paraissent en réalité moins saturées et mieux fondues. Le tableau paraît globalement dans un état de conservation satisfaisant. La toile a fait l’objet d’un ancien rentoilage mais la toile est un peu lâche sur son châssis. Une potentielle couture peut être observée verticalement à plus ou moins 8 cm du bord droit, et a été retouchée. Certaines lacunes sont visibles le long des bords inférieur, gauche et supérieur, dont certaines ont été reprises. La couche picturale paraît un peu mince dans la zone centrale et dans les contours. Elle est couverte d’un beau réseau de craquelures. Quelques retouches sont visibles dans la zone du ciel. Le vernis est encrassé et décoloré ; une restauration permettrait de rendre au tableau son potentiel décoratif. A la lampe U.V. : Le tableau apparaît sous un vernis vert ancien. On remarque les retouches de lacunes (voir supra), ainsi que celles le long de la couture mentionnées ci-dessus. De même on perçoit quelques renforcements des contours des personnages et de leurs vêtements. On remarque des petites restaurations éparses. Vendu avec un cadre sculpté en bois doré (éclats et altérations). The actual painting is less colourful and more subdued then the catalogue illustration would suggest. Overall the painting seems to be in a fairly good condition. Under the naked eye: The canvas has an old glue relining which is quite loose on its stretcher. A possible old seam can be seen running vertically at ca. 8 cm. from the right edge, and this has been retouched. Paintlosses are visible along the lower, left and upper edges; some of which have been retouched. Some thinness can be observed in the central area and around the contours. Covered with a fine craquelure pattern. Retouchings can be seen in the sky area. Covered with a somewhat dirty and discoloured varnish layer, which would benefit from cleaning. Under UV light: The old varnish layer fluoresces and shows retouching to the paintlosses and seam mentioned above as well as strengthenings to the contours of the figures and their dress, as well as some others scattered throughout. Offered with a carved and giltwood frame, damages and chips.
"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."