Konstantin Ivanovich Gorbatov

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 has most likely never been attended to; it is neither cleaned nor damaged. However, the canvas has been dented and distorted slightly, particularly in the center, and some efforts should be made to eliminate these distortions. This could hopefully be done without lining the canvas. The paint layer has never been cleaned and should be lightly cleaned and possibly lightly varnished. There appear to be no paint losses.
"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."

Konstantin Gorbatov was born in the small Volga river town of Stavropol. After initially studying architecture at the St. Petersburg Academy of Fine Arts, he eventually transferred to the painting department where he studied under Dubovskoy and Kiselev, though he was most influenced by Repin and Kuindzhi. He earned a scholarship to travel throughout Europe and he visited Gorky in Capri. It was during this time that he perfected his unique, Impressionistic style.

Upon his return to Russia in 1913, Gorbatov became known for his depictions of Old Russia, including scenes of Pskov, Novgorod and Troitse-Sergiyeva Lavra. According to multiple sources, he emigrated in either 1922 or 1924, but the present composition is dated 1923. Thus he likely painted the work while still in Russia, though it is possible that he painted it later from studies; for years to come he would continue to depict Russian scenes, conveying an ever-present nostalgia for his homeland.