Edward Lear 1812-1888

Anonymous sale in these Rooms, 11 July 1990, lot 138

The overall condition of the colours is good. In general they are clear, however there has been some very minor fading throughout. There are several repaired tears at the edges of the sheet, the largest measuring 4 cm. There are also some minor creases located at the extreme edges. Around three of the four edges of the sheet there is pigment loss and the remains of a previous mount. The creases or tears are only visible when the mount is removed. Overall the work has been well preserved.
"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."

Edward Lear drew this work while on a brief visit to Sicily. Having spent three months in Malta, followed by an excursion to Trieste via Dalmatia and Montenegro, Lear spent a few days in Corfu. Lear had been nervous about making this tour because of rumours of a possible war between Austria and Italy, but he was safely back in England by the end of May. He wrote of Sicily at this time, 'There is a great deal of discontent here [Messina 13th April 1866] and in many parts of Italy; the taxes and toe conscription being a sore which worries the lower class, and is used as a worry by the Bourbonites and priests..... I fear my poor dear Italy has a great many hard trails before her yet....' (Edited by Lady Strachey, Later letters of Edward Lear, 1911, p. 59-60)