The following condition report has been provided by Simon Parkes of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc. 502 East 74th St. New York, NY 212-734-3920, simonparkes@msn.com, an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. This work is painted on a panel which has received some attention on the reverse. Although there are no reinforcements, a wax coating has been applied on the reverse to stabilize the wood. The surface has been restored. The varnish blocks identification of retouching under ultraviolet light, but close visual examination does reveal some weakness. The paint surface originally would have been quite smooth, but is now uneven. Much of this unevenness probably corresponds to restored paint losses. These retouches seem to be extensive and present throughout the picture, but there are no particular areas of concentration except possibly in the center of the group of trees on the left. The retouches seem to be well applied. It is not recommended that the painting be cleaned, as these would be removed and would need to be replaced.
"This lot is offered for sale subject to Sotheby's Conditions of Business, which are available on request and printed in Sotheby's sale catalogues. The independent reports contained in this document are provided for prospective bidders' information only and without warranty by Sotheby's or the Seller."