Vente : Sotheby's, New York, 14 mai 1986, lot 171

Jean Clair & Virginie Monnier, Balthus, Catalogue raisonné, Paris, 1999, no. D 881, reproduit p. 292

Executed on white wove paper, not laid down. The sheet is hinged to the mount at two points along the left edge. There are seven nailhead-sized glue stains due to the previous mounting in the four corners and in the centre of the left, upper and lower edges. There are two slight flattened creases - measuring respectively 1cm and 7cm - running diagonally in the upper right corner. There is a faint 3cm flattened crease running along the upper section of the left edge with two associated 2mm horizontal tears. Apart from some time-staining, this work is in overall good condition.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

monogrammed 'Bs' (lower left), pencil on paper. Executed in 1957.

Fig. 1  Balthus, Le Fruit d'or, 1956, huile sur toile, Collection Par𓆏ticulière