Joaquín Sorolla

Apart from a 4cm vertical crack in the panel extending upwards from the lower edge (visible on the front under close inspection), the panel is in good and stable condition, flat and even. Apart from a few spots of retouching visible under ultraviolet light in the sky, the plinth of the statue, and at the extreme edges addressing frame rubbing, the work is in overall good condition, clean and ready to hang. Held in an elaborate gold-painted carved wood and plaster frame.
"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."

The Fuente de Apolo (also known as the Fuente de las Cuatro Estaciones or Fountain of the Four Seasons), is a monumental fountain in the Paseo del Prado in Madrid. Part of what was called the Salon del Paseo del Prado, it was designed by Ventura Rodríguez as part of the urban redevelopment of Madrid under King Charles III in the 18th century. The fountain was inaugurated in 1803 to celebrate the marriage of the Future Ferdinand VII, son of Charles IV.

Sorolla painted the present work in Madrid in 1882, and signed it the following year according to Blanca Pons Sorolla.