Allegories of the four elements

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 set of four paintings is executed on thin copper sheets, which have been nailed to panels on the reverse. Each of the copper sheets has become slightly uneven, and exhibit some tenting, this is most visible in the allegory of air. All four of the supports are stable. The paint layer of each work is also stable, if dirty, under a varnish that has discolored slightly with age. There are frame abrasions at the extreme edges, which have been retouched and are mostly hidden by the rabbets of the frames. Further retouchings, addressing losses in the paint layers, have discolored slightly with age and are visible in raking light. The larges of these losses is in the sky at center right in the Allegory of Air. Some of the small losses remain unrestored, as seen in the catalogue image. Inspection under ultraviolet light is hindered by an unevenly applied varnish. The set's appearance could be slightly improved with a surface cleaning and re-varnishing to taste, however the works can hang in the present state. The set is offered in matching giltwood frames.