Louis Verboeckhoven

Sale: Sotheby's, London, October 7, 1987, lot 17
Acquired at the above sale by the present owner

The following condition report has been provided by Simon Parkes of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc. 502 East 74th St. New York, NY 212-734-3920, simonparkes@msn.com, an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's.: This work on panel is probably clean. Some cracking has developed to the paint layer throughout, and there are some areas of associated instability. There have already been some losses that have received restoration in the blue sky in the upper center, the upper right corner, the lower right sky, in the sails of the largest boat, and above the steamship, amongst others. One would ideally clean the picture and consolidate the paint layer as much as possible. The work could then be re-varnished and retouched. This is a picture that would improve with proper restoration.
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.