Circle of Gottfried Wals

Anonymous sale, London, Christie's, 22 April 1994, lot 8, for £10,000 (as by Gottfried Wals).

The actual painting is a lot less yellow and more blue and green, overall fresher in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests. The single copper plate is flat and stable. It has strips of wood attached to the reverse along the edges, for no obvious reasons. No damages are apparent and the paint surface appears in good condition. Only very few tiny retouched losses can be observed in the sky. The paint surface is under a fairly clear layer of varnish. Inspection under UV light reveals a few additional tiny scattered retouches in the sky, along the upper edges and in the water in the right background, and some minimal strengthening in the figures on the right. Overall, in good condition. Offered in a plain 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."