Matta (1911-2002)

Private Collection, Switzerland
Sale: Sotheby's, New York, Important Latin American Paintings, Drawings and Sculpture, May 28, 1985, lot 48, illustrated in color
Acquired from the above by the present owner

This painting has received no restoration although it may have been re-stretched at some point. There are small paint losses occurring mainly through the center of the piece. In the middle portion of the left edge there is some slight cracking and a few paint losses. This kind of isolated small paint loss is also visible in other places on this left edge and in isolated spots through the middle. These losses have not been restored and are not symptomatic of any condition issue. The top portion of the picture is in healthy state, except for a few sports in the upper right corner, and the same goes for the bottom part of the picture, except for the lower left corner where a diagonal crack is visible. The canvas should be relaxed and the paint consolidated, whereupon the small losses could be filled and retouched. Overall however, the condition of this painting is very healthy. If the canvas is to be rolled in the future, greater care should be taken. (This condition report has been provided courtesy of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc.)
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.