Private Collection, France

Oil on original canvas. The paint layer is covered in a thick layer of varnish as well as a layer of surface dirt, particularly visible in the lighter pigments of the sky. The piece exhibits a very nice surface texture, though a little craquelure is visible in the lightest pigments throughout, most notably in the outer edges and corners of the sky where some minor framents of pre-existing impasto may have been lost. Some very minor signs of frame abrasion are visible at the extreme upper left, upper right and lower right edges. Under UV light: the varnish is difficult to read through and certain pigments fluoresce. There is some apparent inpainting scattered throughout, for example: three circles 1 inch in diameter just right of the very center of the composition; the green pigment along the extreme left edge beginning 4 inches above the bottom left corner and extending 4 inches above that; scattered spots along the extreme top edge and along the highest part of the left edge; a circle 2 inches in diameter in the distant trees just right of the center left edge; and a circle .5 inches in diameter four inches left of the center right edge. The work hangs beautifully and 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.
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.