Pierre-Marie Beyle

Sale: Christie's, New York, May 22, 1996, lot 231

Oil on canvas, lined. The canvas is in generally good condition, aside from frame abrasion at the extreme edges. Stretcher bar marks are visible, especially through the center of the work. The surface appears to be clean, and some of the impasto retains its dimension, especially in the snow at lower center. Under UV light, there are small scattered retouches throughout the work. The varnish appears to have been cleaned from the lighter areas, mainly the snow, though the varnish fluoresces green over the group of figures at center. There has been some strengthening to the darks, notably in the drummer boy's head, the costume of the military man at center, and in the background at right. These retouches have been finely applied and the work presents well overall.
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.