André Masson

Bucholz Gallery (Curt Valentin), New York
Saidenberg Gallery, New York
Acquired from the above in 1969

This work has never been restored. It is still stretched on its original stretcher. The painting is not dirty, but neither can one clean it. A very visible and obvious condition issue is the stability of the paint layer throughout the picture, with the exception of the figures standing in the red form on the left side of the work. The background, the complex element on the right side, the deep blue surrounding the red element and some of this red itself (at the top and left of the red form) are all displaying serious and noticeable instability. In theory, given time to research and discuss this issue with other conservators, this is a picture that can successfully be conserved. However, no matter how successful the conservation, this work will have to be very carefully handled and displayed in the future – certainly framed behind glass and moved very carefully. The amount of actual paint loss, despite being visible, is not endemic. If the paint layer is stabilized properly, the amount of retouching, though significant in some areas, will not produce a work which is in any way distorted or changed from the original work by the artist. The conservation required here will take time and thought and may require the skills of both an oil painting restorer and a works on paper restorer. The canvas is very slightly wavy in the upper right. No varnish and no cleaning will be required. The good news is that the work is completely untouched, so one has a chance to repair the work, leaving it looking as it should, and not as a work that has suffered through restoration. The above condition report has been prepared by Simon Parkes, an independent conservator who is not an employee of Sotheby's.
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.