Philip Guston

Ned L. Pines, New York (acquired directly from the artist)
Thence by descent to the present owner 

This work is in good condition overall. The sheet has discolored slightly and there is evidence of age discoloration around the edges. There is a slight undulation to the sheet, inherent to the artist's working method. Under very close inspection there is evidence of light staining along the bottom edge of the sheet, a semicircular crease is visible in the lower left quadrant and faint creases are also visible in the lower right quadrant. Also under close inspection, a pinpoint white media accretion is visible at the left edge. The sheet is hinged verso to the matte at each corner. Framed under glass.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Maxine Pines, née Maxine Firestone, was born on October 10, 1924 in Tennessee. In 1964, she married New York publisher Ned Pines, owner of successful publications including popular comic books and pulp magazines. Together, the couple collected art voraciously and passionately throughout their lives. Upon Ned’s retirement from publishing in 1971, the couple traveled extensively, spending several months each year at their home in France, where they frequented Parisian galleries and dined on exquisite local food and wine.

Maxine and Ned belonged to a generation that collected with extraordinary excitement and devotion for the art of their time and an interest and curiosity in artists. Living with artworks represented a quest, a privilege, a joy, a permanent stimulation, emotions that could not be linked to speculation. The couple decided on their purchases purely according to instinct: they bought what they liked, regardless of trends and popular opinion.

Following Ned’s death in 1990, Sotheby’s was entrusted with the sale of the Estate of Ned L. Pines. The dedicated auction showcased many treasures from the Pines’ collection, including works by Georges Rouault, Joan Mirò, Alexander Calder, Willem de Kooning among others. Sotheby’s is honored to be selling works from the Estate of Maxine Pines this fall. Maxine was survived by two sons from a prior marriage - Anthony Michelman (his wife, Gene, and their daughter, Maguy) and Kenneth Michelman (and his wife, Annie).