Max Klinger

This condition report has been provided by Jane McAusland FIIC, Conservator and Restorer of Art on Paper, Nether Hall Barn, Old Newton, Nr Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14. Support This work is on a thin paper adhered to an original mount. There appears to be a whitish-yellow ground on the surface of the paper. The sheet has suffered damages to the surface as follows: a group lower right, some on the top edge as well as the left, right and foot edges. The paper is lifting in small bubbles in places, and the original artist's mount is stained. Medium The medium is good apart from losses where damaged. Note: This work was viewed outside studio conditions. JANE McAUSLAND
"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 early in the artist's career, when Klinger had begun his tutelage under the Symbolist artist Emile Charles Wauters in Brussels. It presages Klinger's blend of Jugendstil and Symbolism in the mysterious and dream-like quality of the animal and human figure and their unusual interaction. The lack of narrative sets a precedent for his later interpretations of Christian themes, ground-breaking in their psychological amplification and lack of traditional iconography.