Bidspirit auction | 18th Century Dutch Master Fruit

18th Century Dutch Master Fruit Still Life with a European Goldfinch - Attribution: Dutch Old Master School Period: 18th Century Oil on wood panel Dimensions: 60 × 42.5 cm Framing: Presented in a classic period-style gold frame (with defects) Provenance Note: This artwork is historically registered and was previously offered at the major spring art auction of the renowned German auction house Kunsthaus am Museum Carola van Ham (now known as VAN HAM Kunstauktionen) in Cologne, Germany, during Auction 71 (held March 16–19, 1977) as Lot No. 1357 (Illustrated on Plate/Tafel 112). Historical Opening Price: 8,000 Deutsche Mark (DM) — equivalent to approximately $3,347 USD in 1977 (roughly $18,440 USD today when adjusted for buying power and inflation). The painting is accompanied by the original archival black-and-white plate from the official 1977 auction catalog. This provides an absolute, undeniable visual match confirming the piece's historical provenance and authenticity. The physical catalog page layout is included with the purchase. Condition Report: Oil on wooden panel. The artwork is in unrestored condition and would benefit greatly from professional cleaning. There is severe degradation, yellowing, and clouding to the old varnish layer. The paint surface exhibits a heavy and dense network of age-related craquelure, along with minor surface scratches. The wooden support remains structurally stable. Structural & Backing Note: The reverse of the wooden panel features a professionally executed traditional wood cradle (parquetage), ensuring excellent structural stability and protection against warping or humidity shifts. Several historical collection/inventory paper labels remain intact on the reverse of the panel and frame.