Grant Wood

Jay G. Sigmund, Solon, Iowa (acquired as a gift directly from the artist)
By descent from the above, the great-grandfather of the present owners

SURFACE: in good condition; could use a light cleaning UNDER ULTRA VIOLET: no apparent inpainting
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.

The three paintings in the sale by Grant Wood, lots 13, 14 and 15 were given as gifts by the artist to his friend and mentor, Jay G. Sigmund (1885-1937), and have remained in the collection of the latter’s family until now.  Sigmund, a life-long resident of Cedar Rapids, was a much acclaimed poet, writer of short stories and plays in his day and played a key role in making Iowa the center of the Regionalist art and literary movement of the 1920s and 1930s.  He was a close friend of Wood’s and a major influence in encouraging the young artist to concentrate his efforts on the subjects he knew best, the local landscapes of Iowa for which he would eventually become famous.