Berlinde de Bruyckere

Galleria Continua, Siena
Acquired from the above by the present owner in March 2006

This work is in good and sound condition overall. All elements appear to be stable and intact. There is significant wear with associated paint loss throughout the entire cabinet, most likely inherent to the artist's working method and found medium. There is evidence of 5 stabilized cracks on the body of the figure: along the spine, at the figure's right abdomen, at the figures left knee, at the figures right hip and lastly, at the figures right knee, all of which have been stabilized and previously restored. There is evidence of a minor indentation on the figures right knee which has previously been restored. This work is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity signed by the artist.
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.

"It is not because you never see a head that it looks like it had been cut off. It is, rather, that I no longer think the presence of a head is necessary. The figure as a whole is a mental state. The presence or absence of a head is irrelevant." Berlinde de Bruyckere