Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky

Previously in the collection of a Russian noble family, Italy

There is a fine crack to the panel running vertically along the left edge, which has been restored. There are frame abrasions along the edges with some minor associated paint loss. There is some surface dirt and some minor surface scratches, particularly in the upper right. Inspection under UV light reveals minor retouching in the lower left which corresponds to the aforementioned crack. There is further minor scattered retouching in places. The signature on the reverse appears to have been strengthened. Held in its original gilt 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."

Biarritz was a great centre for Russian society at the turn of the century. On spending a fortnight there in late 1897, Anton Chekhov noted in his diary that every Russian in Biarritz regretted that there were so many Russians there. He was delighted by this coastal town, and as he wrote in a letter at this time, nothing was more interesting than the ocean, – ‘it roars even in quiet weather’.  The dramatic surf of the Bay of Biscay is not an uncommon subject of Aivazovsky’s work. This exquisite panel, signed alla prima, is a superb example of his ability to combine and contrast blue and white tones in the sky and sea. 

The present work is included in the numbered archive of the artist's work compiled by Gianni Caffiero and Ivan Samarine.