Yuri Pavlovich Annenkov

A gift from the artist to Anthony and Daisy Gross circa 1930
Thence by descent

The canvas is unlined and is attached to what appears to be its original stretcher. The paint surface is covered in a thick layer of dirt and there are frame related areas of minor paint loss along the edges of the canvas, most noticeably in the upper and lower left corners. There are minor areas of craquelure above and below the left building. Inspection under UV light does not reveal any signs of retouching. Held in a plain wooden frame. Unexamined out of frame.
"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."

Born in Dulwich in 1905, the artist Anthony Gross spent much of his youth travelling and studying in London, Paris and Madrid before serving as an official war artist during the Second World War. Gross and his wife became close friends of Yuri Annenkov when they lived near one another in Hameau Boileau in Paris. The offered lot is thought to have been a wedding  present from Annenkov to Mr and Mrs Gross when they married in 1930.