Anonymous (18th Century)

As this is an 18th century picture, one expects certain condition issues. Having said that, abrasion to the numerous details throughout the work has not occurred. Therefore, a great deal of sharpness, detail and strength of color is evident throughout the composition. Although there are restorations around the figures and in the darker colors, the condition is very respectable. Identifying restorations using ultraviolet light is difficult, but it is evident to the naked eye that a good deal of the sky has been cosmetically retouched, particularly across the top edge, where there is a fairly broad filling that includes a lot of the palm fronds at the top, the upper right corner, the peak of the house, and the top of the palm tree on the left. The edges have also received retouches and there are patches of broad restoration down both sides and presumably along the bottom edge as well. The quality is very good and although there are some issues to the condition mainly around the edges, the condition can still be considered worthy of note despite the restorations that have occurred. This is a clear case of a picture that does not look its best because of its current restoration, and these restorations should be removed and the work properly cleaned before accurate and concise restorations are carried out. (This condition report has been provided courtesy of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc.)
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.