Giovanni Battista Busiri

Both picutres are slightly richer in colour than the catalogue illustration would suggest and both canvases have been relined. The paint surfaces of both pictures are in good overall condition with no apparent damage or loss of paint, but both have surface dirt and discoloured varnishes. The first (as illustrated at the top in the catalogue) is thin in the sky around the trees and there are some minor scattered cosmetic retouches in the peripheral areas. There is also a very minor horizontal surface scratch in the water below the tower measuring approx. 3 in. The second (as illustrated at the bottom in the catalogue) is again thin in the sky and there is evidence of retoucing to the peripheral areas upper left and lower right. Examination under ultraviolet of the first confirms the presence of scattered retouching to the canvas edges and peripheries and also very minor scattered flecks of retoucing to the clouds as well as confirming the presence of the varnish. Examination under ultrviolet of the seond confirms the presence of retouching to the canvas edges and peripheries again and also flecks in the sky, in addition to very minor retouching to the upper stretcher bar mark and strnegthening to the contours of the cloud. Both are offered in matching gilt wood and plaster 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."