Balthazar Beschey

Anonymous sale, New York, Christie's, January 29, 1998, lot 176.

The following condition report has been provided by Simon Parkes of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc. 502 East 74th St. New York, NY 212-734-3920, simonparkes@msn.com , an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. This painting is in beautiful condition. The canvas has an old glue lining and while the paint layer has been cleaned more recently, it still appears to be a little dirty. The varnish should be freshened and although the cracking is slightly raised here and there, the lining is sufficient yet it could also be improved. The only apparent structural damage is an old tear or hole which has been repaired and which is situated between the standing woman in the white blouse and the seated woman in the lower right. The remainder of the picture seems to be very healthy and the very few paint losses that have occurred are isolated. This picture is generally in very good state.
"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."