Edward Steichen

Irene and Alice Lewishon, New York
Acquired as a gift from the above by the present owner circa 1947

Condition Report by Simon Parkes (3/28/2013): This work has not been restored for some time. The canvas has an old American glue lining. The paint layer is stable and the cracks are well supported. There is an old restoration to the immediate right of the figure, which seems to interfere with the figure's shoulder very slightly; some of the retouching here has been slightly removed. This restoration is about 4 x 2 inches. There is another small restored loss beneath the same figure's head. The painting is quite noticeably dirty. While this is a tonalist work, it certainly will respond well to cleaning. The above mentioned retouches are very slightly visible under ultraviolet light, and while no other retouches are immediately apparent under ultraviolet light or to the naked eye, some may become more apparent when the picture is cleaned. However, this seems unlikely and the damage that is evident at present is probably isolated. The condition is probably generally respectable, and it will improve greatly with restoration.
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.