John La Farge

Private Collection, Garden City, NY
Private Collection, Garden City, NY, by acquisition of the house and contents, 1943
Thence by descent to the present owner

Overall in good stable condition. This work comprises four distinct windows each with period hanging chains. The panels with approximately 29 cracks to the glass tiles dispersed throughout the four windows. There are approximately 6 small and minimal associated losses to the glass adjacent to the cracks in each window, as seen in the catalogue illustration. The largest loss to the glass measures 1 x 1/4 inch (visible in the catalogue illustration to the lower right corner of the window shown in the left lower row). Another panel with a series of cracks to the white panels of glass along the proper left side. Another window with two V-shaped cracks to the purple glass which shows minor movement—as a precaution this area would benefit from being professionally stabilized. Each window with some small and minor losses throughout to the original grouting (or glazing) around the caming consistent with age. The metal caming and edges of the windows shows surface wear, discoloration and some minor areas of oxidation. One of the windows with a different orientation based on the original hanging chain in comparison to the other windows in the set. This was likely done in the period and the window was oriented in the catalogue illustration to conform to the orientation of the other works. When illuminated, the colors throughout the panels are more vibrant than seen in the catalogue illustration. A rare group of panels by La Farge displaying a fascinating range of artistic glass, most notably in the dimensional central circular tiles.
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.