Maurice de Vlaminck

Private Collection, Switzerland (acquired in the 1950s)
Thence by descent (sale: Sotheby's, London, 20th June 2012, lot 197)
Purchased at the above sale by the present owner

The canvas is not lined. There is a milky uneven varnish preventing UV light from fully penetrating, however UV examination reveals patchy fluorescence that appears to relate to the pigments used as well as the uneven application of the varnish; there do not appear to be any signs of retouching. There are some fine lines of craquelure in places, all of which are stable, and some paint shrinkage, notably to the green foliage. There is a loss to the impasto in the foliage towards the centre of the left edge and a small pigment loss underneath the varnish in the lower left quadrant, approximately 3mm wide. There is some frame rubbing visible to all four corners and a fly spot towards the upper right corner. There is some dirt engrained in the varnish and this work might benefit from a light clean. However, overall there is a lovely thick and well-preserved impasto and this work is in good condition.
"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."