Sale, Christie's London, 3rd March 1989, lot 478
Sale, Christie's London, 23rd October 1996, lot 75, where acquired by David Bowie

The board appears sound. There are nails visible along the extreme edges where the board is attached to framing elements at the reverse and a few small holes with some associated loss along the lower quadrant and to the upper right corner probably due to previous nails. There are a few very small spots of loss to the lower right corner. There are small spots of studio detritus visible to the work, including to the upper right corner and lower left corner. Subject to the above, the work appears to be in very good overall condition. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals an uneven milky varnish making the work difficult to read. There is possible retouching along three thin horizontal lines across the board: one to the upper quadrant and two to the centre. The work is presented in a simple gilded wooden frame with a canvas rebate. Please telephone the department on +44 (0) 207 293 6424 if you have any questions regarding the present work.
"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."