John Bratby, R.A.

Albert Allen (bursar of the Royal College of Art, and John Bratby's lifelong friend)

There are holes running down the left and right edges, although this appears to have been the original state of the board. There are several minor chips in the lower right quadrant, and one in the upper left quadrant. There are some flecks of white paint to some areas of the work; these may have been caused by the artist during the creation of the work. There is a passage of paint seperation within the sky. The edges of the board have been variously chipped. Held in a gilt, wood and plaster frame, with a cream gesso border. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals six spots of retouching within the lower left quadrant, and one in the lower right.
"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 present work is 'one of a series of paintings John Bratby executed when, after being evicted from his bedsit, he illicitly camped out in the attic recess above the Royal College and adjacent to the Museum ' (Peter Davies, Bratby, Old Bakehouse Publications, Gwent, 2002, p.45 and 46).

To be sold together with collection of related letters from the artist.