Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky

Original canvas. There is a layer of light surface dirt and discoloured varnish. There are light frame abrasions and fine lines of craquelure in places.
"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 serenity of this winter landscape admirably reflects Aivazovky's romantic and lyrical style. He painted many winter scenes throughout his career, the earliest depicting ox-carts traversing the vast Ukrainian steppe and two winter landscapes, which closely relate to the offered lot, can be found in the Dolmabahçe Palace, Turkey (fig.1).
Aivazovsky layers the composition with shades of white, carefully and deftly conveying the powdery snow as it settles on the branches and weighs down the trees.

In the present lot an air of melancholy seems to surround the two dark figures at the centre of the composition and it is has been suggested that this may be a depiction of members of the Imperial family in mourning after the assassination of Alexander II in 1881.