IVAN KONSTANTINOVICH AIVAZOVSKY | The Black Sea

Sotheby’s Arcade, Old Master and 19th Century European Paintings and Drawings, 12 July 1989, lot 279 as ‘Attributed to Ivan Aivasoffsky’

Original canvas. There are frame abrasions with minor associated paint loss along the edges. Some remnants of gold paint are also visible in places along the edges and the work appears to have been framed when the paint was still wet. There is a fleck of paint loss to the sky approximately 3.5cm above the flag and there is some very fine craquelure in places, most noticeably to the waves below the ship. There is a light layer of surface dirt. Inspection under UV light reveals an unevenly applied varnish layer but no obvious signs of retouching. Held in a gilt wooden frame. 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."

The present work is included in the numbered archive of the artist's work compiled by Gianni Caffiero and Ivan Samarine.