STRUCTURE The canvas has been relined. There are two small spots of paint loss along the upper right edge and one or two light surface abrasions near the centre of the lower edge. There are a few small surface deposits along the left side of the upper edge and another on the fourth step to the left of the lady's dress. There is some light craquelure between the two pages, which appears stable and is only visible upon close inspection. There is a repaired tear running diagonally from the lower left corner to the centre of the right edge, which is very slightly visible to the naked eye. Otherwise the work appears in good overall condition. ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT There is retouching to the aforementioned tear. There are further scattered patches of retouching to the background and sky, around the page boy centre left, and infilling of craquelure to the woman's face and chest. There are some other scattered retouchings across the canvas. FRAME Held in a gilt plaster frame. Please telephone the department on 0207 293 5718 if you have any questions about the present work.
"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."