Théobald Michau

Macdonald;
His sale, London, Robinson and Fisher, 11 October 1934, lot 122 (both according to Witt Library mount).

The painting is not as dark as the catalogue illustration suggests. The relined canvas is still effective. To the verso a vertical strip 58 cm in width has been attached. This corresponds to a restored vertical tear of 15 cm centre left. The paint surface is secure and under a discoloured varnish but appears abraded in several areas, including the sky, background, and darker tones. Discoloured retouchings can be made out in the sky and background. These are confirmed by inspection under UV light as well as some further retouchings: in the darker tones of the houses in the distance centre left, in the roof of the barn in the centre and in the darker tones in and around all the figures, particularly around the couple centre left. Further strengthenings flouresce in the dark ground centre left, to the left of the barn in the centre, around the chimney upper right, and in the tree upper right. Offered in a wood and plaster frame with a few knocks.
"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."