Gillian Ayres, R.A.

Acquired directly from the Artist by Glyn Hughes circa the 1950s, by whom gifted to the present owner in 2006

Condition report prepared by Stuart Sanderson (Paintings Conservation), October 2015 Some of the losses that are apparent, relate to the water stain that is visible on the back. There are other where the bond between the paint and the board has broken down. Some of the blemishes are to do with the type of paint that has been used by the artist, including the reticulation cracking pattern, and there are areas where the underlying paint layers are visible through the top coat. The painting has a grubby and uneven appearance. I think the painting could be cleaned, the areas of loose paint consolidated, the areas of loss, filled and retouched. In a painting of this nature, a certain amount of unevenness and cracking would be see as acceptable. The extent of the conservation and restoration work undertaken would depend on the views of the future owners, and their conservator. I would allow £2000 plus VAT for the treatment as outlined above.
"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."