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 does not appear to have been recently restored. The canvas has an old lining. The canvas is well stretched, and the surface is stable. The work has not been recently cleaned. There are vertical streaks in the varnish running through the composition, but these have not disturbed the paint layer.
Under ultraviolet light, one can see small retouches to some cracking and probably some thinness in the darker colors of the trees in the center. There are some colors that show strongly under ultraviolet light that seem to correspond to original paint, for instance in the leaves of the trees. There are other retouches that are less visible under ultraviolet light along the bottom edge, in the upper sky, and in the tree on the right, perhaps to address some unevenness to the glazes. Close examination with the naked eye does not reveal any significant weakness.
Careful restoration would make a notable difference.
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.
