Milton Avery

The following condition report has been provided by Simon Parkes of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc., New York, an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's:

This work on canvas is unlined. It seems to have been re-stretched at some point, and the tacking edges appear to have been reinforced in that process. The varnish has become opaque in some of the darker colors. The work may be slightly dirty beneath this varnish, and it may well respond well to cleaning. There is a group of tiny retouches in the left hand, which probably address a pentiment of the chair that is original to the artist. The retouches here could be easily removed if necessary. Although the work reads unevenly under ultraviolet light, there do not appear to be any other restorations. The paint is applied in a very loose and brushy fashion in the blue dress, but this is all original to the artist.

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.