Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky
Steamboat on a Moonlit Night
Property from a Private Collection
Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky
1817 - 1900
Steamboat on a Moonlit Night
signed in Cyrillic and dated 1884 l.l.
oil on canvas
Canvas: 25 by 37cm, 9¾ by 14½in.
Framed: 51 by 62cm, 20 by 24½in.
The present work is included in the numbered archive of the artist's work compiled by Gianni Caffiero and Ivan Samarine.
The canvas has been lined and the original tacking edges have been cut. The paint surface appears flat. There are frame abrasions along all four edges and craquelure throughout. Areas of retouching are visible to the naked eye, most noticeably in the sky in the upper right just below the top edge; above the sail on the horizon; and near the centre of the right edge. Inspection under UV reveals the aforementioned areas of retouching, a further area of retouching to the water above the signature, inpainting to the craquelure notably above the steamboat, and minor scattered retouching elsewhere. The varnish has discoloured and there is a light layer of surface dirt. Framed.
"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."
This animated night scene is offered in its original frame manufactured by Sweikowsky in St Petersburg.