Ben Nicholson, O.M.

Anthony Hepworth Fine Art, Bath

The First: The sheet of paper which is painted grey has been laid down on to a white painted card. There are some minor creases visible the white painted sheet, with resultant instances of minor loss, most noticeably to the bottom left and upper right corner, but also including the extreme tips of all four corners. There is minor surface dirt and staining to the unpainted area of the central sheet in the centre of the composition, with some spots of studio detritus and possible foxing in this this area. This excepting the work appears in good overall condition, with strong, vivid colours throughout. The Second: The sheet is not laid down, but is adhered to a card mount via two hinge strips at the top edge. The sheet is folded in two, and folded again along the right hand edge, none of which is visible in the present mount. There is an old repaired tear to the top edge, with some further minor handling marks and creases elsewhere to the sheet, including two diagonal creases to the bottom left corner, not visible in the present mount. There is surface dirt, minor staining and spots of studio detritus to the sheet, with one or two early signs of slight foxing apparent. This excepting the work appears in good overall condition, with strong, fresh pencil throughout. Both housed in matching white painted wooden frames, set behind glass. Please telephone the department on +44 (0) 207 293 6424 if you have any questions regarding the present work.
"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."