Eric Sloane

Private Collection, New Jersey

Oil on Masonite. Surface: In good condition aside from a 3 1/2 inch surface scratch to the upper left corner. UNDER UV: No apparent inpainting.
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.

The painted decorations on the side of the barn are Pennsylvania Dutch hex signs, which grew out of the fraktur and folk art traditions.  The practice of painting them on the sides of barns began in the mid-nineteenth century when paint became affordable. There are two schools of thought on the meaning of hex signs; one ascribes a talismanic significance to them, the other as pride and adornment.