In Courtyard with an Arbour, how is the History discussed?
This painting by Hooch was first documented by John Smith in 1833, who wrote:47. A View in the Back Court of a House, looking towards a building, which has a lofty arched passage through it, paved with marble, at the end of which are seen a street, and some trees, upon the step of the passage, in front, is seated a child, dressed in a gray frock and yellow skirt, with a dog in her lap ; and under a covering of vine trellis (in a recess, formed by some walls, and the corner of the house), are three men seated at a table, regaling, and a woman standing near them, with a glass of wine in her hand : various objects, among which are a cask and a pot, concur to give picturesque effect to the scene, which is brightly illumined by the appearance of the most perfect daylight. Signed, and dated 1658. 
2 ft. 4 in. by 1 ft. 11 in.—G. This excellent picture was formerly in the collection of Mr. Walscott, at Antwerp, and was bought, a few years back, by the present proprietor, at a large price, at Berlin. Now in the collection of Edward Solly, Esq.
Edward Solly John Smith