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 is meant to be framed as an oval and if that occurs, the damage and additions in the corners will be eliminated. In addition to these restorations there is an old tear in the pomegranate in the lower right, another in the birds in the lower center and in the asparagus in the center. In the straw wine basket in the upper left there is a significant damage and in the top of the celery at the upper center there is also a visible damage. All of these damages have been restrained by a wax lining, yet because the condition of the paint itself is quite fresh and unabraded, the lining should be removed, the picture should be cleaned and the retouches should be reapplied in a concise fashion. A frame should also be chosen which incorporates spandrels to cover the four corners. If this were to take place, although there are some structural damages, the picture will look wonderful and a considerable improvement on what can currently be seen.
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.