Giorgio de Chirico

Private Collection, Italy (acquired directly from the artist)
Thence by descent to the present owner

The canvas is not lined. Examination under UV light reveals two spots of retouching to the lower left corner, some lines of retouching to the horses' manes and bodies and some further minor spots and lines of retouching to the background, most prominently to the lower right quadrant. There is a repaired tear to the horse's mane to the upper centre with associated retouching. There are remnants of velvet attached to all four edges due to mounting and not visible when framed. There are areas of frame rubbing with associated paint loss, most notably to the centre of the lower edge and the lower part of the right edge. There are two further, minor flecks of paint loss to the lower right quadrant and there are two pin holes to the lower right corner. There are areas of uneven varnish, particularly noticeable at the body of the central white horse. There are fine lines of craquelure to the thicker pigments, in particular the white pigment. This work is in overall fairly good condition.
"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."