Albert Oehlen

Galerie Max Hetzler, Cologne
Acquired by the present owner from the above

Cologne, Galerie Max Hetzler; New York, Luhring Augustine, Albert Oehlen: Gemälde II, September - October 1992, p. 42, illustrated in color
Valencia, Centre del Carme, Albert Oehlen, April - June 1996

This work is in very good condition. The work is comprised of four constituent panels which have been sewn together. There is a small hairline crack located along the left edge 23 inches from the upper corner. There are paint drips and liquid accretions in the lower-left quadrant of the composition, which appears to be inherent to the artist's working method and technique. 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.

At first one sees only a chaos of colors; then it begins to assume a likeness, but no: it resembles nothing. All at once a point defines itself, like the nucleus of a cell; it grows, the colors group themselves around it and accumulate; rays develop which sprout branches and twigs as ice crystals do on a window-pane... and the image presents itself to the viewer, who has assisted at the birth of the picture. And, what is even better, the painting remains always new, it changes according to the light, never wears out, and is endowed with the gift of life.
- August Strinberg (Albert Oehlen, Paintings: 1980-2004, Self Portrait and 50 million times speed of light, 2002, p. 86)