Tom Starbuck, Des Moines, Iowa
Private Collection, Des Moines, Iowa, 1976 (acquired from the above)
By descent in the family to the present owner, 1992

Very good condition. Under UV: no apparent inpainting
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.

Polly Burroughs, in reference to the finished version, Menemsha Harbor, which shares numerous compositional elements with the present work, writes, "In the 1920s Rita Benton used to walk down to Dutchers Dock when the boats came in to ask the men for fish. With fishing boats tied up, a typical double ended dory in the foreground, barrels for bait or dried fish, and the Elizabeth Islands in the background, Benton shows the little port which was professionally, economically, and socially intertwined with the Bentons' lives for over half a century. Menemsha Creek flows by the jetty to the left, on into Menemsha Pond, and the port itself is called the 'Crik' by Chilmarkers" (Thomas Hart Benton: A Portrait, New York, 1981, p. 128).