Philemon and Baucis

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 painting is supported by a glue lining and is stable on its stretcher. The paint layer is stable and exhibits a fine craquelure over the darkest areas of color (the trees at left and in the browns of the mountain). A repair to a tear in the sky at center is visible in natural light, measures about ½ inch in length, and corresponds to a patch on the reverse. A second tear is visible immediately to the right, measuring 1 ½ inches in length, but does not correspond to any patches. Further retouching to the extreme edges is visible in natural light. Inspection using ultraviolet light reveals at least two campaigns of retouching using feathered strokes concentrated in the sky at center. Broad areas of retouching to the sky and mountain at the far left and to the sky above the temple at center correspond to two additional patches on the reverse, but no tear is visible below the retouches. Ultraviolet light also reveals strengthening to the contours of the kneeling figure on the mountain. The painting presents well and should be displayed in its current condition. It is offered in a gilt wood frame.