John Lewis

With David Messum Fine Art, Marlow, circa 1986

STRUCTURE The canvas has been lined. PAINT SURFACE The painting appears to be in very good condition. There is evidence of restoration to a crease running horizontally across the centre of the painting. Otherwise there is no apparent damage of loss of paint. ULTRAVIOLET Examination under ultraviolet light reveals further retouching in the upper left along an old crease caused by the lower edge of the upper stretcher bar. Elsewhere there is evidence of scattered very minor retouching concentrated predominantly in the boy's face and hands. There is also evidence of an old discoloured varnish overall. FRAME Held in a carved and gilded frame. To speak to a specialist about this lot please contact Julian Gascoigne on +44 (0)207 293 5482, or at julian.gascoigne@sothebys.com, or Ludo Shaw Stewart on +44 (0)207 293 5816, or at ludovic.shawstewart@sothebys.com.
"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."