After Johann Heinrich Füssli

STRUCTURE The panel appears to be stable. PAINT SURFACE The painting appears to be in good condition. There is evidence of abrasion around the edges notably along the lower edge, caused most probably by an old ill-fitting frame. There are some very minor paint losses in the lower left most likely caused by the same. There is also evidence of a discoloured varnish and minor surface dirt overall. ULTRAVIOLET Examination under ultraviolet light reveals evidence of an old campaign of retouching barely visible beneath the varnish. There is also evidence of an old horizontal split in the panel in the uppe right measuring approx 6 in. from the panel edge. There has been a more recent campaign of very very minor retouching primarily to the abrasion on the left and right hand edges but also a small horizontal split measuring approx . 4 in. from the panel edge and along the tabletop. FRAME Held in a carved wood frame. To speak to a specialist about this lot please contact Julian Gascoigne on +44 (0)207 293 5482, or at julian.gascoigne@sothebys.com, or Ludo Shaw Stewart on +44 (0)207 293 5816, or at ludovic.shawstewart@sothebys.com.
"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."