John Houston, O.B.E., R.S.A., R.S.W.

Acquired by the present owner in 1961

Original canvas. The canvas appears sound. Upon close inspection it is possible to see some very fine lines of cracquelure and reticulation, most apparent to some scattered spots in the sky, with some further isolated instances elsewhere. There is a small spot of loss and cupping to a spot in the dark blue pigment in the lower centre of the composition. There may be one or two small instances of loss to some of the tips of impasto. There is some frame abrasion apparent to the lower side of the right vertical edge. There are some instances of studio detritus and surface dirt, including a couple of white specks to the lower left quadrant, but this excepting the work appears to be in very good overall condition. Ultraviolet light reveals some areas of fluorescence, which are thought to be in keeping with the Artist's materials. The work is housed in a painted wooden 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."