Adolphe Behrens

Private Collection, Germany (and sold, Sotheby's, London, October 3, 2007, lot 204, illustrated)
Acquired at the above sale

This painting is in original, unlined condition, with a strip of canvas reinforcement applied along to top edge. Scattered finely patterned stable craquelure visible in some areas. Under UV: several spots of retouching scattered throughout sky, spots in the lower left quadrant, and some minor spots scattered elsewhere.
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.

The impressive and panoramic view of the South Bay of Scarborough, one of the first seaside resorts in England, reflects the town’s popularity in the second half of the nineteenth century (fig. 1).  Throngs of visitors flocked to this coastal retreat every summer, drawn to the restorative mineral waters of the celebrated Spa, visible at left, and its proximity to the refreshing ocean.  The lush cliff gardens nearby provided a peaceful respite from the crowded beaches and were easily accessible by the South Cliff Tramway (the first funicular railway in Britain), built in 1875 and cleverly marketed with its famous “224 steps avoided for 1d” sign, visible in the present work.  Further along the beach, beyond the personal bathing wagons, rises the Grand Hotel, which, upon opening in 1867, held records as the largest hotel and brick building in Europe.