John McLaughlin

André Emmerich Gallery, Inc., New York
Private Collection (acquired from the above in 1976)
Thence by descent to the present owner

This work is in very good condition overall. There is evidence of light surface soiling and minor wear to the corners and turning edges, only visible under close inspection. There is evidence of some very minor surface media accretions and few very minor, unobtrusive pigment losses to the superficial layer of pigment in the yellow area, only visible upon very close inspection. Also upon close inspection, there are a few additional areas of minor pigment loss to the edges and corners of the work, particularly at the lower right and lower left corners as well as along the left edge. The artist's frame exhibits minor wear and handling. Under Ultraviolet light inspection, there are a few small areas that fluoresce lightly within the yellow pigmented form in the center, which are likely due to minor restoration. Framed in artist's 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.
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 mature work of John McLaughlin, the paintings from the last twenty-five years of his life (1950-75), are so thoroughly realized within the idiom of Western nonobjective art that it requires a sensitive viewer to appreciate their highly unusual character and their very real debt to Japanese art and culture. This is true not merely because McLaughlin insisted upon it. His own character was formed, in part, by his experience of living in Japan, his serious study of Japanese art and language, and his expertise in Japanese paintings and prints which at times provided him with a livelihood." 

Susan C. Larsen, "John McLaughlin: A Rare Sensibility" in Exh. Cat., Laguna Beach, Laguna Art Museum, John McLaughlin: Western Modernism/Eastern Thought, 1996, p. 15