RUSSIAN SCHOOL | Portrait of Emperor Alexander I

Sotheby's London, The Russian Sale, 31 May 2001, lot 9

Original canvas which is slightly buckling in places. There are two holes to the sitter's forehead and several small holes to the background on the right. There are abrasions with associated paint loss along the edges of the oval aperture. Two flecks of paint loss are visible to the uniform lower right. There is a horizontal indentation and associated scratch to the lower right of the sitter's chest. There is craquelure throughout which is raised and unstable in places. There is a layer of surface dirt with spots in places. Inspection under UV light reveals minor spots of retouching to the aforementioned losses in the background as well as an unevenly discoloured varnish layer. Held in a gilt wooden frame with oval aperture. 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."