Patrick Heron

Sale, Christie's London, 8 November 1991, lot 236, whence purchased by the present owner

The following condition report was prepared by the painting restorer Phil Young. CONDITION The painting surface has dirt and what appears to be a yellowed and darkened heavy varnish (no tests were made). There are local distortions in the canvas particularly around the corners. There is an abrasion across the tops of the canvas texture in the upper left centre and some distortions in the lower areas as a result of debris between canvas and stretcher. A pale spill or other residue is seen in the centre of the painting. A number of losses to the brown paint in the lower sections are seen, notably up from the lower edge where two losses run for 9cm horizontally; there is also some loss in from the centre right edge and in the dark brushstroke below the right side of the plate. The drying crackle in the red area at left centre is a natural result of the paint ageing and not related to a condition problem. CONCLUSIONS The appearance may be improved by removal of the varnish, consolidation and restoration of the paint losses.
"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."

Painted in 1947.