MATTA | Horror is Not Truth

Pierre Matisse Gallery, New York
Acquavella Gallery, New York
Private Collection (acquired from the above and sold: Christie's, New York, November 17, 2009, lot 24) 
Weinstein Gallery, San Francisco (acquired at the above sale) 
Acquired from the above

New York, Pierre Matisse Gallery, 1948
Munich, Kunsthalle der Hypo-Kulturstiftung & Vienna, Kunsthaus, Matta, 1991-92, no. 29, illustrated in color in the catalogue 
Yokohama, Yokohama Museum of Art, Masson et Matta. Les Deux Univers, 1994, no. 29, illustrated in color in the catalogue 

This work is still on its original stretcher. The paint layer is in beautiful condition. Under ultraviolet light, one can see beneath the crimson element in the lower right that there is a horizontal line of retouches perhaps addressing a thin scratch, which could easily be original to the artist. There is another retouching on the lower left edge in the lower left corner. There are no other retouches, and the one in the lower right may be cosmetic. The work should be hung as is.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This work is included in the Archives de l'Oeuvre de Matta.