George Inness

Reichard & Co., New York

Canvas is lined. SURFACE: in fairly good condition; craquelure throughout (stable); a small area of solvent abrasion at left on large tree's lower branches (just at horizon line)--possibly also at center of horizon line where the upper part of a tree or shrub seems fuzzy, as though it has been changed; pentimenti of an old sapling or some kind of tree at extreme right (again at horizon line) ; a 'ghost' of an earlier contour to the figure of the shepherd (just to the left of his torso) UNDER ULTRA VIOLET: much of surface (aside from upper right; quadrant--sky) appears to be under old varnish--hard to see through; one can see scattered craquelure fill-in throughout, most of it in the form of thin, small lines; thicker dots/dashes of inpaint throughout large tree at left; also, 5 horizontal lines of inpaint(about 2 in. long) at horizon line, right edge (aforementioned pentimenti, probably); a small repaired tear, roughly in the shape of an "M" at lower left corner, about an in. high; signature is under thick varnish--can't see through under UV
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.