Rudolf Ernst

This condition report has been provided by Jane McAusland FIIC, Conservator and Restorer of Art on Paper, Nether Hall Barn, Old Newton, Nr Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14. Support The artist has used a sheet of white, watercolour type paper to support this watercolour drawing. The sheet has no damages, surface dirt or stains and, at present, it is attached at the edges to a mount. The condition is good. Medium The bright colours are in a good condition though, probably, they have faded a little. Note: This work was viewed outside studio conditions. JANE McAUSLAND
"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."

This work demonstrates Ernst's mastery in the medium of watercolour as well as the more usual oil. In this example, a caliph and his favourite occupy the space in front of an elaborately carved wooden door and stone arch. In ornament and design, it resembles those portals recorded by the great French artist and scholar Achille Prisse d'Avennes (1807-79), and may owe as much to the latter's large-format, richly coloured lithographs as to sketches done by Ernst on site, such as in the Alhambra in Granada. As with many of Ernst's compositions, the artist juxtaposes a rich variety of textures and patterns, from the stone carving to the bear skin and elaborate costumes, to create a veritable visual feast reflecting a cumulative memory of his disparate travels to Spain and the Middle East.