Andrea Locatelli

The canvases have been relined, which has flattened the paint. The paint surface is protected by a thick varnish but is dirty and yellowed. In the first of the pair there is thinning of paint in the foliage on the left hand side and lower left, where the ground is being partially exposed. Otherwise there is no loss of paint and no flaking. The details of the soldier are particularly charming, with the wind blowing the plume of his hat and his sash in the breeze. Inspection under UV light reveals delicate infilling to the craquelure throughout, some retouching along the lower edge to paint rubbed by the frame over time, a tiny area (1cm) of repainting to the base of the tree in the centre, and also the top fo the mast of the boat in the distance. Largely the all the work remains in its original state and simply needs a clean. The second painting: Faint craquelure on the left hand sky. Although the paint surface has been pressed through relining, paint strokes are still visible in areas, for example in the hair and ears of the goats drinking. Inspection under UV light shows delicate very delicate infilling of craquelure throughout and larger ares of old retouching around the goatsherd in the river, a smaller area around the figures in discussion, a small spot retouching in the tree centre and two tiny spot retouchings in the sky. There is tiny fragments of missing paint along the edges, which are hidden beneath the frame. These lots are sold in matching gilt, decorative frames,both structurally sound, one frame with a few damages to the right hand side.
"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."