Sale, Sotheby’s London, The Estate of Edward Burra, Lady Ritchie of Dundee and Associated Owners, 3rd July 2002, lot 283, where acquired by the present owner

London, Alex. Reid and Lefevre Ltd, Stage Designs by Edward Burra, 14th April - 12th May 1994, cat. no.5, illustrated.

The sheet appears sound, and is adhered to a backing board via tabs along the top edge, but is not fully laid down. The sheet is formed of three sheets joined, as common in Burra's working process. The joins are visible running horizontally through the centre and down the right hand side of the composition. There is minor cockling to the sheet, with deckled edges visible when viewed out of the mount. The right and top edge have been unevenly cut. There are some very small pinholes apparent in the centre and upper right of the foreground, visible upon very close inspection. There are spots of surface dirt, studio detritus and possible staining to the sheet, most apparent to the unpainted central 'stage' area. This excepting the work appears in very good overall condition, with strong, vivid colours throughout. There are four un-finished costume studies visible on the reverse by the same hand. Housed behind glass in a thick wooden frame, set within a cream card mount. Please contact 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."