Lot 172: GERRIT CLAESZ. BLEKER | A battle on horseback with armoured soldiers and soldiers wearing turbans, in a landscape

oil on oak panel

32.1 by 63.6 cm.; 12 5/8  by 25 in.

oil on oak panel

The panel is uncradled and only minimally bowed, the paint surface is stable and the varnish is even and only slightly discoloured. The paint surface is a little dirty. A tiny surface scratch is visible on the centre left, above the smaller hill in the distance. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals some minor strengthenings in the sky and a couple of small patches of retouching along the upper margin, centre, the longest of which measures c. 3cm. The dark patches in the rear of the white horse also fluoresce black under ultraviolet light. In overall good condition. Offered in a plain 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. 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."

Amsterdam, Amsterdams Historisch Museum, 17e-eeuwse schilderijen uit de Verzameling Willem Russell, 20 June – 13 September 1970, no. 6.

L.J. Bol, Holländische Maler des 17.Jahrhunderts nahe den grossen Meistern, Braunschweig 1969, p. 247, reproduced fig. 240;
S. Levie, in 17e-eeuwse schilderijen uit de Verzameling Willem Russell, exhibition catalogue, Amsterdam 1970, p. 12, cat. no. 6, reproduced.

Count Philippe de Limburg Stirum, Anzegem, 1954;
Rigaux, Antwerp;
Anonymous sale, Amsterdam, Mak van Waay, 23 May 1967, lot 36;
In the present family collection by 1970.