Follower of Giuseppe Zais

John M. Lyle, Toronto;
By whom donated to The Art Gallery of Ontario in 1942, (acc. no. 2611)

Oil on canvas, with a stable modern glue relining. The paint surface is well-preserved overall. The darks in the vegetation in the foreground and the tree on the left have sunk a little and there is some abrasion in the lower right section but this does not affect the reading of the image. The figures remain clear with nice impasto. Under UV light, the majority of the work is obscured by the varnish. Some potential retouches are visible, especially in the figures at lower center as well as potentially in the foliage at lower left. Potential additional retouching in the foliage of the tree at left and dots and lines to address craquelure and associated loss in the sky. Offered in a carved gilt wood 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.
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.