Martha Walter

By descent in the family of the artist to the present owner, her nephew

Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc. (August 26, 2014): This painting was restored, perhaps in the 1980s. At that time, it was lined, using glue as an adhesive. The paint layer is stable. Although the artist paints rapidly and quite thinly in areas, it seems that more thinness may have developed during previous cleaning, particularly in the hills beyond the figures and perhaps along the bottom edge, especially in the lower right and lower left. Restorations were added as a result; these have discolored over time and should be re-examined. As is very often the case, a lot of this retouching is probably unnecessary. A certain amount of intentional thinness would be appropriate. The condition is encouraging in general, and the painting would benefit from further examination.
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.