Emil Johann Lauffer

The canvas has been relined. There are some localised areas of hairline craquelure, which appear to be stable. Ultra-violet light reveals an uneven varnish which fluoresces opaquely in places making the surface difficult to read; there are signs of retouching notably in the baby's chin and a small area above his head and in his body including Merlin's left hand; extensive strokes to the turret of the wall to the right; two spots in the face of the woman in red and spots in the girl in the lower-right; spots of strengthening to the horse behind Merlin and thin strokes addressing craquelure in the body of the kneeling monk. There are spots of faint fluorescence in the white pigments of the baby's robes and Merlin's clothes which could correspond to retouching but may be associated with the artist's pigments. The overall appearance of the work under normal light is good and it is ready to hang. Presented in a decorative 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."