Galerie Lea Gredt, Luxembourg
Acquired directly from the above by the present owner in 2000

Colour: The colours in the catalogue ilustration are fairly accurate, although the overall tonality is cooler in the original and there is greater contrast between the nails and white background. Condition: This work is in very good condition. A few of the nails show oxidation in isolated areas. Some light dust has accumulated in the crevices between the nails. There are very thin and stable hairline cracks to the paint along the side edges in the thickest areas of impasto.
"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."

"Kneeling on the still untouched surface, he hammered nails spontaneously and without a primary sketch, working outward from the centre at a rapid, rhythmic pace… Focusing his attention entirely on the nails, he was forced to rely on his instinct with respect to the continuity of the field as a whole... This tremendous physical effort also explains the physical effect evoked by these spatial pictures. To speak of action pictures in this context would be entirely appropriate."

Alexander Tolnay, Ed., Günther Uecker: Twenty Chapters, Ostfildern-Ruit 2006, p. 60