John Atkinson Grimshaw

The following condition report has been prepared by Hamish Dewar Ltd, 13 & 14 Mason's Yard, Duke Street St James', London, SW1Y 6BU: Structural support The canvas is lined and is securely attached to what would certainly appear to be the original keyed wooden stretcher. This is providing an even and stable structural support. Paint surface The painting has an even varnish layer. There is a very fine pattern of craquelure most notably within the yellow pigments of the sky, but this is entirely stable and not visually distracting. Inspection under ultra-violet light shows an area of inter-connected lines of retouching running through the buildings and trees on the left of the composition and corresponding to an old multi-legged tear to the canvas. The lines of retouching are within an area measuring approximately 20 x 26 cm. There is also a fine vertical line of retouching which measures approximately 8 cm in length in the lower left corner of the composition and some further fine lines within the trees close to the right vertical framing edge. Summary The painting would therefore appear to be in good and stable condition having undergone restoration work in the past.
"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."