William Ratcliffe

The canvasboard appears to be sound and stable. There is some very minor abrasion to the centre of the left vertical edge. There is a very minor scratch in the lower left corner and a further scuff in the hills above the willow tree. There is possibly some flattening to some of the impasto tips, most evident in the reds and whites of the central flowers and to the clouds in the upper left corner. This may have occurred during painting. There is one very tiny fleck of paint loss just to the left of the artist's signature, only visible upon close inspection. There is evidence of surface dirt and some studio matter throughout, including a line to the upper left edge. Subject to the above the work appears to be in overall very good condition. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals one or two very minor flecks of fluorescence to the centre of the work, thought to be consistent with surface dirt. The work is presented in a carved and gilt wood frame, with a canvas slip. 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."