Louise Abbéma 1858 - 1927

The following condition report was kindly provided by Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc.: This painting has not been properly restored for a number of years and should be re-assessed from a conservation standpoint. The painting has a thin rough lining which should be changed. One of the reasons for the lining is a horizontal tear running approximately seven or eight inches through the hat and the sky on the left of the head. In the black of the figure's coat and in her muff there are some obviously discolored dark retouches visible, and in the base of the snowy bank in the center left there is also what appears to be another tear running approximately six inches horizontally. The cracking and blooming of the varnish and the generally shoddy and dull finish gives this picture an uneven quality at present. Yet this painting should not be discounted because of this. This picture will respond very well to cleaning and the condition may not be as poor as may appear. There does not appear to be any abrasion and a fresh lining and cleaning will reveal a considerably better paint layer, albeit with some noticeable damages. However, once restored, the picture should look very well.
"This lot is offered for sale subject to Sotheby's Conditions of Business, which are available on request and printed in Sotheby's sale catalogues. The independent reports contained in this document are provided for prospective bidders' information only and without warranty by Sotheby's or the Seller."