Sir Alfred James Munnings, P.R.A., R.W.S. 1878-1959

The work would appear to be in generally excellent condition. There are no apparent tears or damages, and the sheet is in good, stable condition. The sheet has faded slightly with age, but the colours of the gouche are fresh and clean. The work is mounted and held behind glass. The work has not been examined out of the 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."

The present work was executed during Munning's apprenticeship with Page Brothers of Norwich which began in 1893 and lasted for six years.  He remembered those formative years fondly,
'They put me in my place on occasions, for I was doing work which they could not, and bringing poster and other figure-design work to a firm that had never before done anything of the kind.  For all that, they were my friends, advisers, sympathisers, and we seldom had differences of any kind, and all were good-humoured.  How we laughed at times, in spite of the long hours!'