Fred Machetanz 1908-2002

Artique Fine Arts, Anchorage, Alaska (acquired directly from the artist)
Acquired by the present owner from the above

In good overall condition Under UV light: no evidence of inpainting.
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.

A copy of a typewritten description of "Whaling Lookout" by the artist is available with the lot.  It reads as follows:

"One member of a whaling crew, which is camping out on the ice field, has climbed the high pile of pressure ice to look farther in the distance toward the sea.

With his binoculars, he can spot a whale which is coming north, past their camp on the edge of the ice field.

It is said that in the older days, the purpose of the blanket or skin toss of the Eskimos was used to give a higher vantage point, and thus spot the oncoming whale.  The thickness of the ice cakes built up during the winter also indicates it is spring in the Arctic, which is also whale hunting time for the coastal Eskimos around and above the Arctic Circle.

This painting was started with an underpainting in blue and white to which layers of transparent oil pigment or glazes were added to produce this final effect.  It is much the technique of the old masters such as Vermeer, Rembrandt and Titian."