painted with two celestial deities standing in a field of swirling clouds, the misty wisps wrapping around the women and blowing their generous robes, sleeves, and sashes in folds and flourishes around their bodies, the taller maiden dressed in a red robe with brocade trim and an embroidered floral shawl, elaborate hoop earrings dangling from the ears and floral hair ornaments pinned to the high chignon, the other maiden similar adorned in a green robe

Collection of Ms. Gray Warswick, acquired in China prior to 1929.
Gifted to an American private collector in the 1930s, and thence by descent.

There are consolidated cracks, lifting, and minor losses throughout particularly to the edges and corners (the largest section of loss and repair to upper right corner). The surface has expected wear and fading to the pigments, with some areas retouched. There appears to be some cloudy accretion in areas most visible by the hair ornaments and earrings. PLEASE NOTE THAT THE FRESCO WAS NOT REMOVED FROM THE FRAME FOR INSPECTION OR MEASUREMENT.
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.

Compare a large Yuan / Ming dynasty polychrome fresco from the collection of Robert H. Ellsworth, New York, sold at Christie's New York, 20th March 2015, lot 772, and another smaller wall fresco sold at Christie's New York, 17th September 2008, lot 378.