Sir Matthew Smith

Gifted by the Artist to his wife, Gwen Salmond, and thence by descent to the present owner

Original canvas. There are some horizontal lines of paint cracking in areas of the composition, including but not limited to, the lower left corner, the lower and upper edges and the centre of the composition. There is also a small scratch at the centre of the composition between the pepper and the vase and small flecks of paint loss at the centre of the upper edge and the vertical edges which appear to be the result of pinholes used in the artist's working method. There are small areas of paint loss in the red pigment inside the left handle of the jar. On extremely close examination evidence of surface dirt is visible across the painting. Subject to the above the work is in good and original condition. Ultraviolet light reveals no obvious signs of florescence or retouching. The painting is presented in a ornate painted frame. Please contact 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."