HERBERT GURSCHNER | Mother earth -Sowing

Kunsthandel Widder, Vienna
Acquired from the above by the present owner in 2006

The canvas has not been lined and has been safely attached to a keyed wooden stretcher which may be of later date. There is one small spot of paint flaking in the landscape in the centre-left of the composition, along with a small spot of paint lifting in the hat of the man in the foreground which might benefit from some work of consolidation. Inspection under ultra-violet light reveals areas of retouching notably in the upper half of the composition, including: - extensive areas in the sky and in the landscape; - areas of retouching in the shirts and trousers of the two men in the background; - strokes of retouching in the hat and in the cheek of the man in the foreground; and - other small, scattered spots throughout. Overall, this work presents well to the naked eye. Presented in a dark, floating frame. Colours in reality are less saturated and softer than in the catalogue illustration.
"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."