Johann Anton Castell

Georg Schäfer (1897 - 1976), Schweinfurt;
His sale, Munich Neumesiter Kunstauktionen, 25 February 2005, lot 257;
Purchased at the above sale by the present owner.

The canvas has not been lined. There is a visible stretcher mark along the upper edge, and minor hairline craquelure on the painted surface, notably two vertical lines circa 6 cm. from the right and left framing edge possibly associated to the corresponding stretcher bars. There are signs of paint flaking along the upper left framing edge and minor rubbing along the four edges, covered by the frame. There is a small vertical stroke of what appears to be possibly glue or water above the dark brown rock toward the right side of the composition. Ultra-violet light reveals minor scattered spots of retouching, notably in the sky. The work is in otherwise good condition and ready to hang. Presented in a gilt frame.
"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."