Víctor Manuel (1897-1969)

Antonio Blanco, Caracas
Sale: Christie's, New York, The Latin American Sale, November 18, 2003, lot 44, illustrated in color

Portland, Portland Art Museum, December 2003-March 2004 (on loan)

This work is painted on a large piece of board that has been reinforced with a wooden framework on the reverse. The heavy and vigorous paint layer seems to be stable and healthy throughout. There may be a slight dirt layer on the surface. The work does appear to have a thin varnish on the surface. Some cracking has occurred in the white pigment, particularly in the lower right. There is also cracking in the heavy areas of green and deep red in the upper right. However, there is no instability apparent. There does not seem to be retouching of any note. There is only slight retouching in the lower right and here and there on the edges around the picture. Aside from some of the edges, the picture is generally in very good condition. (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.