John Craxton, R.A.

Christopher Hull Gallery, London, where acquired by the late owner in 1987

Not examined out of the frame. The drawing is float mounted and appears to be attached to a supporting board at each of the four corners. There are pinholes in each of the four corners and at the centre of the lower horizontal edge which are in keeping with the artist's working method. The sheet has a slight wave and there is evidence of slight cockling at the extreme edges. On close examination it is possible to see some creases at the edges of the sheet and two small tears at the lower left vertical edge. There is some discolouration to the sheet along the upper edge with further small traces of old adhesive along the upper and lower horizontal edges. The pigments appear to be strong and with the exception of the above the work appears to be in very good condition. The work is float mounted on a fabric covered backing board and held behind glass in a painted frame with a gilt slip. 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."

John Craxton and Lucian Freud were friends of Viscount Samuel while he was a student at Balliol College, Oxford. 

We are grateful to Ian Collins for his kind assistance with the cataloguing of the present work.