FERNAND LÉGER | Composition

Private collection, France (acquired in the 1950s)

Georges Bauquier, Fernand Léger, Catalogue raisonné de l'œuvre peint, 1932-1937, Paris, 1996, vol. V, no. 907, illustrated p. 193

It has not been possible to see the work entirely unframed. The canvas is not lined. There is milky varnish preventing UV light from fully penetrating, however the examination under UV light appears to reveal no evidence of retouching. There are a few thin line of stable craquelure in places and an horizontal surface scratch (approx. 2 cm long) possibly original to the extreme lower left white-grey element. There are a few flyspots to the centre of the composition and some light frame rubbing along extremes edges. This work is overall good condition and could benefit from a clean.
"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 was with Robert Delaunay that we led the battle, that we worked to liberate color. Before us, the green was a tree, the blue the sky, etc. After us, color became a thing in and out of itself."
Fernand Léger, Fonctions de la peinture, p.253