Private Collection, Paris (acquired in the 1950s)

Painted on cradled panel. There appears to be a thick layer of varnish to the panel, preventing UV light from fully penetrating. There are intermittent specks and lines of retouching running at intervals along all four edges of the panel to cover previous frame rubbing and intermittent specks of retouching to the upper left quadrant, all visible under UV light. Apart from a 2.5 cm. line of retouching towards the lower right corner above the signature, a further minor area of retouching towards the centre of the right edge, both visible under UV light, and a pinhead-sized area of paint loss below the left figure, this work is in overall good condition. Colours: Overall fairly accurate, although the colours are slightly richer in the original.
"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."