Thomas Birch

Frank S. Schwarz & Son, Philadelphia
Acquired from the above by the present owner, 1989

Oil on canvas, canvas is wax lined. Surface: In generally good codnition aside from craquelure throughout. UNDER UV: Scattered dots, dashes, and lines of inpainting throughout, mostly in the sky and at extreme edges to address frame abrasion. There is a J shaped area of inpainting above and in the sails approximately 2 inches high and 1 inch wide. There is also a small area of inpainting in the water to the right, approximately 1 cm width.
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.

A similar view of New York harbor by Birch, painted in 1827, is in the Museum of the City of New York. This view from the southern tip of Manhattan looking toward Staten Island, shows Castle William on the left. Castle William was built on Governor's Island in 1811 and was used to help fortify the harbor during the War of 1812.