Robert Borlase Smart

Sale, Christie's London, 13th May 1994, lot 34, where acquired by David Bowie

Original canvas, the canvas is sound. There is a push in each of the upper and lower right corners, and the canvas undulates very slightly in the upper left corner. There is a minor stretcher bar mark along the upper horizontal edge. There is an area of craquelure in the window in the upper left corner, with associated tiny flecks of loss. There are further isolated fine lines of craquelure along the right vertical edge. There are specks of surface dirt throughout, with some specks of mould visible along the lower horizontal edge. Subject to the above the work is in very good overall condition. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals no obvious signs of restoration or retouching. The work is held within an ornate composite gilt frame. Please telephone 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."