Herman de Vries

Plus-Kern Galerie, Ghent
Acquired directly from the above by the present owner in 1970

Colour: The colours in the catalogue illustration are fairly accurate, although the overall tonality is slightly warmer with the white tending more to ivory in the original. The catalogue illustration fails to convey fully the rich surface texture and the three dimensionality of the relief apparent in the original. Condition: This work is in very good condition. The four edges and corners are slightly worn and there are a few isolated scattered abrasions and rub marks, notably a spot beneath the centre on the left extreme edge and to the top right and lower left corners. There are a few further isolated spots of wear, minor abrasions and short light rub marks in isolated places to the protruding elements and elsewhere to the relief. Fine surface cracks are running intermittently in places to the joins between the elements and the board. On close examination there are five light media drip marks: four to the top half of the composition and another top the lower right quadrant. No restoration is apparent when examined under ultraviolet light.
"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."