Théobald Michau

The catalogue illustration is too red and too dark. The painting is now very dirty and the varnish layer very discoloured. The paint surface runs over the edge of the stretcher on the top, left and right edges, suggesting that the canvas may have been trimmed before being put on its present stretcher. There is a large old 10 cm. tear lower right, clearly visible in the catalogue illustration. There are a couple of small dents in the sky and a long 10 cm surface scrape above the cottages, but apart from this the paint surface is in excellent original condition with only minor surface blemishes. There has been some abrasion caused by movement in the frame, but this is minor. Offered in a later gilt plaster frame, all four corners damaged.
"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."