Sir Winston Churchill, K.G., O.M., F.R.S., HON. R.A.

Presented by the Artist to Colonel and Mrs Frank W. Clarke
Sotheby's, New York, 'Property from the Estate of John S. Knight Akron, Ohio and Miami Beach', 21^st May 1982, where acquired by the present owner's family

David Coombs, Churchill: His Paintings, Hamish Hamilton, London, 1967, cat. no.422, illustrated p.238.

The following condition report has been prepared by Hamish Dewar Ltd., 13 and 14 Mason's Yard, Duke Street, St James', London, SW1Y 6BU: The painting has recently been treated but there is very extensive flaking and many areas of paint loss across the paint surface. There are also many retouchings which clearly cover losses which have been filled and retouched. As the recent treatment has been unsuccessful in ensuring even short-term stability, I would suggest that the canvas should now be treated and lined. I am reluctant to line the unlined canvas but in the light of the extent of the flaking I do think this would be the most sensible treatment. The extensive retouchings that have been applied in the past would need to be removed and any areas of paint loss then filled and retouched.
"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."