Gabriel de la Corte

Anonymous sale, Paris, Tajan, 17 December 1997, lot 336, for FF. 360,000.

The canvases have been relined and the backgrounds of both works are a little sunken, though the paint surface of the flower arrangements are rather well-preserved, particularly in the painting with the gold urn. The paint surfaces are clean, with a fine craquelure running throughout. There is a small 1cm. dent centre right in the flower arrangement of the gold urn painting and a small area of paint loss lower left on the black and gold urn painting, as visible in the catalogue illustration. Inspection under UV light reveals extensive retouchings to the background of both paintings, with just a handful of scattered spot retouchings to the flower arrangements and vases. The paintings are ready to hang. Offered in modern carved and gilt wood frames in good condition.
"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."