Smith, John: A catalogue raisonné of the works of the most eminent Dutch, Flemish, and French painters: in which is included a short biographical notice of the artists, with a copious description of their principal pictures : a statement of the prices at which such pictures have been sold at public sales on the continent and in England; a reference the the galleries and private collections in which a large portion are at present; and the names of the artists by whom they have been engraved; to which is added, a brief notice of the scholars & imitators of the great masters of the above schools (Part 1) (London: Smith and Son, 1829)

32 GERARD DOW.
spinning-wheel; in the room is a table with bread and cheese
on it, &c.
Collection of Geldermeester . . 1800. , 1220yZo. 110Z.
8 in. by 7 in.—P.

95. La Femme Hydropique. This capital picture represents
the interior of a large and lofty room, with an arched window
on the right, and a circular one above it; in the opposite side
of the apartment is suspended a rich piece of tapestry, which is
drawn up, and forms a pleasing object, both from the tasteful
cast of the folds, and the angle which it makes in the picture.
The composition exhibits a group of four figures, disposed near
the window, the centre one is a lady of middle age, seated in
an arm-chair, evidently suffering under a severe malady, her
affliction is affectionately deplored by her daughter, a beautiful
girl, who is kneeling by the side of her parent, holding one of
her hands; a doctor, in a purple silk robe, and a scarf round
his waist, stands on the left of the lady, attentively examining a
urinal, while a female attendant, who is behind her chair, is
offering her some refreshment in a spoon. The accessories
consist of a handsome brass chandelier, suspended from the
ceiling; a reading stand, with a book lying open on it, placed
on the right and front; and on the opposite side, a marble
wine-cooler; farther in the room is an arm-chair, and in the
back of the apartment, a dome-bedstead. The elegance of the
dresses, and the taste displayed in the furniture, denote the rank
and opulence of the family.
This surprising production is no less excellent for its precious
finish in all the details, than for the strong natural expression
of each figure; the patient resignation of the lady, the filial
affection of the daughter, the anxious attention of the nurse,
and the ominous gesture of the doctor, are portrayed with a
refinement of feeling that would do honour to the best Italian
masters.
This magnificent chef-d'oeuvre of the artist was purchased by
the Elector Palatine sor 30,000sso., and by him presented to