The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.
THIS CONDITION REPORT HAS BEEN PREPARED BY HAMISH DEWAR FINE ART CONSERVATION,IN THE CHRISTIE'S WAREHOUSE FOR THE PURPOSE OF THIS SALE.
UNCONDITIONAL AND WITHOUT PREJUDICE
Structural condition
The unlined canvas is attached with pins to the reverse of the frame, and should ideally besecurely attached to the fixed wooden stretcher, rather than to the frame. The canvas is still reasonably taut and even and the overall structural condition is good. It is obviously most encouraging to find the canvas in its original unlined state.
Paint surface The paint surface is secure and has a dry surface with minimal varnish. The painting would undoubtedly respond very well to cleaning and I would be confident of a considerable improvement in the overall appearance. Inspection under ultraviolet light shows the paint surface to fluoresce unevenly, which is characteristic of the artist, and I could find no evidence of any retouching.
Summary The painting would therefore appear to be in very good and stable condition and would benefit from being more securely stretched and from cleaning and revarnishing.
Print Report