Lot 184: CORNELIS CORNELISZ. VAN HAARLEM | The martyrdom of Saint Sebastian

oil on canvas

138.5 by 96.5 cm.; 54 1/2  by 38 in.

oil on canvas

The following condition report is provided by Hamish Dewar who is an external specialist and not an employee of Sotheby's: Structural Condition The canvas has been lined and this is ensuring a secure and stable structural support. Paint Surface The paint surface has an even varnish layer. Inspection under ultra-violet light shows extensive retouchings which appear to have been quite recently and carefully applied. The most significant of these are: 1) retouchings on the contours of the foliage in the upper right of the composition, 2) a vertical line of retouching running down the centre of San Sebastian's chest, other retouchings on his neck, small retouchings on his chin, and many small dots and lines of inpainting covering what I would assume was canvas grain throughout the flesh tones. 3) Retouchings covering what would appear to be a repaired tear running across Saint Sebastian's right forearm, with extensive retouching on his right hand and wrist. 4) Retouchings in the foliage in the upper left of the composition, 5) thin vertical lines of inpainting in the sky and landscape to the right of Saint Sebastian, and other lines and areas of inpainting in the sky to the left of Saint Sebastian. 6) Retouchings on the hair of one of the three figures in the lower left of the composition, as well as numerous very small spots and lines on their flesh tones and jackets and a number of other scattered retouchings. Summary The painting would therefore appear to be in stable condition and no further work is required. The extent of retouchings applied in the past should be noted.
"This lot is offered for sale subject to Sotheby's Conditions of Business, which are available on request and printed in Sotheby's sale catalogues. The independent reports contained in this document are provided for prospective bidders' information only and without warranty by Sotheby's or the Seller."

John Naylor, Sheffield, 1906;
Claude Barker, Sheffield, 1910;
In the family of the present owners, in England, since the early 20th century.