Sir Anthony Caro, O.M., C.B.E., R.A.

Ace Gallery, Venice, California, where acquired by the previous owner, 1978
James Hyman Fine Art, London, where acquired by the present owner

Dieter Blume, Anthony Caro: Table and Related Sculptures 1966-1978, Verlag Galerie Wentzel, Cologne, 1981, cat. no.360, illustrated p.230.

The elements of the work appear sound and securely attached. There are light areas of wear to the underside of the sculpture, where it rests on the surface. The surface of the metal is mottled and uneven in places, with a few spots of possible rust, particularly on the reverse of the top element. in keeping with the Artist's materials. There are a few very light surface scuffs and scratches in places and there is a small indentation along the upper edges towards the left (as viewed) side of the work, which appear to be in keeping with the Artist's technique. There are marks of yellow surface matter on the upper element of the work at the front, possibly in keeping with the Artist's materials. There is light surface dirt to the work. Subject to the above the work appears to be in very good overall condition. The work is freestanding. Please telephone the department on +44 207 293 6424 if you have any questions.
"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."

'It takes only one great artist to keep a tradition alive. And through much of its history, the tradition of constructed sculpture has lived almost that precariously. Invented by Picasso...it was virtually reinvented by David Smith. Since the latter's death, its destiny has been very much in the hands of Anthony Caro.' (William Rubin, Anthony Caro, The Museum of Modern Art, New York, 1975, p.15).