MARIO MERZ | Gocce Nel Lago

Sperone Westwater, New York
Acquired from the above by the present owner 

This work is in very good condition overall. The canvas is unlined and unstretched and the edges are unevenly cut. The fluorescent light component is in sound working order. The raincoat element shows evidence of light staining and surface soiling. There is a minor tear at the right of the closure and a missing button on the raincoat, possibly inherent and consistent with the artist's intention. Under close inspection, there is some minor fraying to the fabric, likely from the time of execution and consistent with the artist's working method and choice of medium. Under close inspection, there is evidence of light surface soiling and minor fading to the canvas. There is evidence of a few artist's holes to the top horizontal edge and the area where the raincoat is affixed to the canvas, all from the time of execution and consistent with the artist's working method. Only visible under very close inspection, there are a few, scattered minor losses to the pigment particularly along the perimeter and some very minor, scattered unobtrusive surface accretions. Unframed.
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.

“Merz intuitively shapes a total landscape that embraces all the contradictions and all the rich texture of history. And yet, this total landscape does not include certainty, and that is what makes it poetic – makes it real.”
Gloria Moure, Exh. Cat., Barcelona, Fundació Antoni Tàpies, Mario Merz, 1993, p. 19