Richard Prince

Barbara Gladstone Gallery, New York
Gagosian Gallery, Beverly Hills
Acquired by the present owner from the above in January 2005

Beverly Hills, Gagosian Gallery, Richard Prince: Check Paintings, February - April 2005, p. 29, illustrated in color

This work appears in excellent condition overall. The third check from the bottom of the right column (No. 848) is torn at the top left corner. The third check from the bottom of the left column (No. 4956 01) has a small abrasion. A few additional checks exhibit evidence of wear and light lifting. The aforementioned nuances are inherent to the artist's working method and intent. 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.

While I was browsing for autographed photographs, I noticed that memorabilia websites also sell cancelled checks. I started thinking about how much information there is on a personal check. Most fans collect them just for the signature, but I really like the way they're presented on a plaque, with the cancelled check under the person's photo. That looked kind of nice.... I had this idea that I would take twenty checks and paste them on a canvas to make check paintings. I liked the idea that an invitation for the show might suggest that I'm doing something with grids or geometry. But they're real checks!
-Richard Prince