Desmond Morris

Philip Oakes (intro.), The Secret Surrealist: The Paintings of Desmond Morris, St Martins Press, 1990, no.23;
Michel Remy, The Surrealist World of Desmond Morris, Jonathan Cape, London, 1991, no.23;
Silvano Levy, Desmond Morris: 50 years of Surrealism, Barrie and Jenkins, 1997, no.23, p.26, illustrated;
Silvano Levy, Desmond Morris, Analytical Catalogue Raisonné, Petraco-Pandora, Belgium, 2001, no.23.

Training Ground: There are several minor hairline cracks around the left hand figure, and one to the upper most figure. The surface of the work is dirty and would benefit from a professional clean. Presented in a cream wooden frame with a hessian border. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals no evidence of retouching. Rite de Passage: There are artist's pinholes in all corners, although these would have been made during the creation of the work. There is craquelure throughout the work. There are a group of black spots that protrude from the paint surface towards the right and lower edges. There is an inconsistency towards the left edge where the paint appears to have become discoloured. The surface of the work is dirty and would benefit from a professional clean. Presented in a cream wooden frame with a hessian border. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals no evidence of retouching.
"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."

Executed in 1957.

To be sold together with Rite de Passage, an oil on canvas by the same hand.