Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema, O.M., R.A.

Sotheby's, New York, 4  November 2011, part of lot 67;
Private collection

The drawing is strong and finely detailed. The paper has discoloured in areas and it should benefit from cleaning and conservation. The are a few areas of foxing, one to the left of the bearded figure. The drawing has not been viewed outside of the frame but to the visible eye there are some old restorations to the left and right of the column on the LHS and near the top in the upper left quadrant - these appear to repaired tears. We recommend an independent restorer's report for this lot.
"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."

A Harvest Festival (Christie's, 19 February 2003, lot 1) was painted in 1880 at the height of Tadema's career, for the Amsterdam dealer Cor M. Van Gogh and sold to his nephew Theo, the art dealer and brother of the painter Vincent Van Gogh. It depicts a celebration of harvest with female musicians taking turns to dance before an altar. It is believed that the flute-player was a self-portrait.