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 painting has an old glue lining. The paint layer is stable. The painting is most likely clean although may be slightly dirty. If the varnish were to be freshened, it could be hung in its current state. Restorations are visible under ultraviolet light, predominantly in the sky, above the flames in the lower and middle-center sky, and above the burning house on the right side in the clouds. In the landscape and foreground throughout the figure group there seems to be little or no restoration and outside of these above-mentioned restorations in the sky, there are only a few spots in the upper sky and around the edges which are visible under ultraviolet light. The condition of this painting is generally very respectable.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.