James McNeill Whistler

Four etchings,1860-1880, the first probably an intermediate state between the second and third state (of three), the small figures at lower right remain, but the sky reworked and the steamboat smoke visible; the second the fourth (final) state printed with burr and plate tone; the third an intermediate state between the second and third state (of seven), with a few slanting lines below doorway but not the strong lines described by Kennedy, with atmospheric tone in the water, signed in pencil with the butterfly on the tab and inscribed 'imp'; the last the eighth (final) state, the first two and last from the Thames Set, the third from the Second Venice Set, on laid papers, framed (4 prints)

The prints are in good condition, all with wide margins apart from Nocturne Furnace. Individual conditions as follows: Hungerford Bridge: A few inconspicuous fox marks in the image and margins, with pale light-stain, the upper margin with pale discoloration at hinges. The extreme sheet edges verso backed with a thin strip of paper at all sides. Forge: The margins with pale light-stain and a few scattered pale fox marks, the lower left corner creased and with slight surface soiling, two tiny tears at hinges upper sheet edge. Nocturne Furnace: The sheet is brittle and darkened overall with additional staining where the sheet glued to the backing, reverse foxing in three places. The upper sheet with two horizontal tears, another short diagonal tear above the tab. Little Pool: A pale window of light-stain exists around the image, darkest at the mat opening. The margins with occasional surface soiling, the upper left and lower right corners creased.
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.