Aernout Smit

The actual painting is less red and more grey blue in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests. The canvas has an old, sightly firm relining which has not overly flattened the paint surface. The paint surface is under a fairly clear layer of varnish and there's a somewhat coarse craquelure which is slightly beginning to lift in some areas. Some small scattered retouchings in the sky and minor strengthening in the ships can be observed. Under UV light the sky looks more substantially retouched and some scattered retouchings in the sea and ships are revealed. But for the naked eye this is very nicely done. Offered in a later black ebonised wood frame in good condition.
"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."