Iosif Evstafevich Krachkovsky

Original canvas. Stretcher bar marks are visible along all four edges. There are slightly raised but stable cracks running along the right edge. There is an area of circular cracks between the two trees in the foreground and there are other minor cracks in places. The paint surface is covered with a layer of dirt and the varnish has discoloured. There are minor abrasions along the edges. Inspection under UV light reveals no obvious signs of retouching. Held in a gilt wooden frame with plaster mouldings. Unexamined out of frame.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

In the late 1890s and early 1900s Krachkovsky painted many views of fruit trees in bloom in Crimea. These were often commissions from the highest members of the Imperial Family, including Tsar Nicholas II and his mother Dowager Empress Maria Fedorovna who would spend the summers at their palace at Livadia. These Crimean views were equally popular with the public in both Russia and Europe and were exhibited at Krachkovsky's solo exhibitions in Paris, Nice and St Petersburg.