Lot 15
  • 15

Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky

Estimate
40,000 - 60,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • Greeting an American Ship
  • signed in Latin and dated 1878 l.l.
  • oil on canvas
  • 23.5 by 29.5cm, 9 1/4 by 11 1/2 in.

Provenance

Acquired by the grandfather of the present owners

Condition

The canvas has been laid down on hardboard, which is attached to what appears to be the original stretcher. The tacking edges have been cut. There are abrasions with associated paint loss along all edges. The work is covered in a layer of heavily discoloured varnish as well as surface dirt. There is craquelure throughout, most noticeably at the centre where it has caused the varnish layer to lift slightly. There is a scratch in the upper right corner and a few flecks of gold paint on the sand in the lower left. Inspection under UV-light reveals a small area of possible old retouching in the sky, but the aforementioned varnish layer hinders a more conclusive analysis. Held in a gilt wooden frame with plaster mouldings. Unexamined out of 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."

Catalogue Note

The present work is included in the numbered archive of the artist's work compiled by Gianni Caffiero and Ivan Samarine.