Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky, 1817-1900

Probably St. Petersburg, Imperial Academy of Arts, 1872

N.P.Sobko, Slovar' russkikh khudozhnikov, vayatelei, zhivopistsev, zodchikh, risovalschikov, graverov, litografov, vol.1, p.329, No.357

The following condition report has been supplied by: Hamish Dewar Ltd, Fine Art Conservation, 14 Mason's Yard, Duke Street St James's, London SW1Y 6BU tel + 44 (0)20 7930 4004, fax + 44 (0)20 7930 4100, hamish@hamishdewar.co.uk www.hamishdewar.co.uk The artist's canvas has been laid onto hardboard and while this is not the most sympathetic method of structural conservation it is certainly providing an even and stable support. The surface textures and impasto have inevitably been adversely affected as a result of this structural treatment. The paint surface has an even varnish layer and a few small scattered retouchings are clearly visible under UV light. These are primarily in the sky and the largest of the retouchings is an area just to the right of the moon which comprises of four separate retouchings which in total measure approximately 6 by 1.5cm. The painting therefore is in stable condition and while no further work is required for reasons of conservation, it would be possible to consider removing the canvas from the hard board and relining it onto a secondary canvas as opposed to hardboard. This would however be a lengthy and expensive procedure and it may well be felt that the painting is best left in its present stable condition.
"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."