Urs Fischer

Sadie Coles HQ, London
Acquired by the present owner from the above in 2003

Zurich, Galerie Hauser & Wirth & Presenhuber, Mastering the Complaint, August – October 2001
Zurich, Galerie Eva Presenhuber, Breathing the water, February - March 2003

Per the artist, the art work is dynamic by definition as it is the artist's wish that during exhibition the wick(s) of the candle remain lit. The molded wax figure will eventually melt and form pools of wax on the floor, which should remain untouched, as this constitutes part of the work. The artist is not responsible for the damage that may occur during the exhibition of the work. When a new exhibition copy is required, one can refer to the manual provided by the artist (of which Sotheby's has a copy) and/or contact the artist. The mold for the figure remains in the artist's possession and the wax figure can be fabricated by Kunst Gieserrei in St. Gallen, Switzerland. The fabrication will take approximately 4 to 6 weeks and the current estimated cost is CH 5,000 – CH 7,000.
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.