John Piper

Marlborough Fine Art, London
Sale, Sotheby's London, 4th March 1998, lot 150, where acquired by the present owner

Durham, Grey College, University of Durham, John Piper: A Retrospective, 29th April - 15th May 1999, cat. no.10.

The sheet is sound. It does not appear to be laid down and undulates slightly across the surface. There are two very fine scratches in the upper right corner, only visible upon close inspection, otherwise the work appears in excellent overall condition. Held in a dark stained wood frame with a cream mount under glass; unexamined out of frame. Please telephone the department on 0207 293 6424 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."

Piper likely painted the present cottage, which is found in Frith Wood, South of Kingsclere, on several occasions (see S. John Woods, John Piper, Paintings, Drawings and Theatre Designs 1932-1954, London, 1955, pl.83 and Anthony West, John Piper, London 1979, no.73)