Alfred Wierusz-Kowalski

Private Collector, St. Louis (acquired circa 1960)
Thence by descent to the present owners

Lined. Faint and finely patterned craquelure in isolated areas of sky and in some of the darker pigments of horses and figure. Under UV: Isolated 1 ½ inch area of inpainting in post at left, also visible to the naked eye.
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.

Returning Home is related to two other versions by Wierusz-Kowalski of 1880 (one now in a private collection, Poland, the other untraced) which exemplify his style of the period influenced by fellow Polish artist Józef Brandt.  Wieursz-Kowalski rarely so faithfully reworked a subject from one composition to the next. The main figurative group is placed in the immediate foreground and the artist employs a series of bold, distinct brushstrokes and rich colors to add a physicality to the composition.  Wierusz-Kowalski had a particular mastery in painting snow and in Returning Home built-up mounds of frosty white paint seem to sparkle while smoother, thinner applications of grey pigment suggest patches melting into the warming earth.