César van Loo

The painting appears darker and more modulated in tone than the catalogue illustration would suggest. The canvas has been relined and the signed and dated paint surface appears to be in good overall condition to the naked eye. Under a raking light there is evidence of an old minor diagonal tear lower right measuring approx. 7cm. There is evidence of a more extensive old horizontal repaired tear above the roofline centre right measuring approx. 40cm. with a 10cm. offshoot running parallel above it. There is a more extensive tear still, in the sky and mountain range upper left that runs in a rectangular shape, approx. 20 by 30cm. with various offshoots. Otherwise the paint surface appears in good condition with evidence of an old craquelure and a discoloured varnish overall. Inspection under UV confirms the presence of the varnish and the aforementioned damage, whilst revealing blocks of retouching beneath the larger tears on the left and right. UV also reveals an old minor horizontal repaired tear in the lower right in the shadow of the figure, measuring approx. 10cm. There are also scattered minor retouches in the water and rock face lower left, and scattered throughout the sky predominantly to the infilling of craquelure, Overall though the picture appears to be in good condition to the naked eye. Offered in a plain gilt wood frame with a few minor losses.
"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."