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 has a lining applied with glue as an adhesive. The paint layer is clean and varnished.

In the foreground around the figures, there are retouches addressing slight weakness in the darker colors of the balustrade, in a few isolated spots in the poplar trees on the right, and to thinness in the pale blue trees to the right of the fountain. The trees to the left of the fountain are in good condition, with only slight strengthening to some weakness in the trunk of the tall tree.

The sky was originally thinly painted, but it has become thinner over time. To the right of the top of the fountain, there is a fairly large restoration measuring about 3 by 3 inches and another group of restorations further to the right. There are some isolated restored losses in the upper sky, but none of any note.

The work looks well and should be hung in its current state.

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.