Sir Stanley Spencer, R.A.

Unity Spencer, from whom acquired by Tom Lapierre, Canada, circa 1980
Private Collection, Canada

The sheet appears to be laid down onto a thin layer of Japanese paper which has been attached to a supporting board at points along all four edges. There are pinholes at the extreme lower, upper and right edges of the sheet which appear to be consistent with the artist's working method. There is a large restored tear, measuring approximately 57cm., that runs diagonally through the sheet from the lower right edge to the upper centre, which has resulted in a loss at the centre of the upper edge. There are three further losses at the upper edge. In addition to this, there are some other small tears around the edges of the sheet. There are two horizontal creases that stretch across the sheet at the lower edge and at the centre of the composition, with further smaller creases scattered throughout. There is evidence of some surface dirt across the composition. The graphite appears strong and fresh. The drawing is float mounted and presented in a gilt and painted ornate frame. Please contact the department on +44 (0) 207 293 6424 if you have any questions regarding the present work.
"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."

We are grateful to Carolyn Leder for her kind assistance with the cataloguing of the present work.