Marcus Stone R.A.

The Cooling Galleries, London

STRUCTURE The canvas has been lined. On close inspection there is a minor repair at the extreme upper edge just beneath the frame. There is some very minor frame abrasion with some tiny flecks of paint loss at the extreme left edge in a couple of places. Otherwise the work is in good condition. UNDER ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT There is some retouching to the right half of the extreme upper edge and some minor flecks to the central and right hand sections of the composition. There is some fluorescent varnish around the signature. FRAME Held in a decorative composite frame in fair 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."

This is a smaller version of or study for An Offer of Marriage, which was exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1883. The finished painting is a taller composition, showing more of the steps down to a lake and taller trees. The painting was conceived as a pendant to Il y en a toujours un Autre (A Prior Attachment) of 1882.