Philip Guston

Paul Kantor Gallery, Beverly Hills
Collection of Pauli Hirsh, Los Angeles (acquired from the above)
Christie's, New York, Contemporary Art from the Collection of Pauli Hirsh, 8 November 1983, Lot 7
Acquired from the above sale by the present owner

This work is in very good condition overall. There is very minor evidence of handling along the edges. The edges of the board are taped. There are artist’s pinholes along the top edge. Under very close inspection, a faint vertical abrasion is visible along the left edge, a partial tear to the sheet is visible along the lower third of the left edge and an unobtrusive pinpoint brown spot accretion is visible 3-inches from the center of the right edge. Under Ultraviolet light inspection a pinpoint drip accretion fluoresces lightly in the upper right quadrant but does not appear to be the result of restoration. Framed.
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.

“I think every good painter here in New York really paints a self-portrait. I think a painter has two choices: he paints the world or himself. And I think the best painting that’s done here is when he paints himself, and by himself, I mean himself in this environment. In this total situation.”
Philip Guston

The Guston Foundation will include this work in the forthcoming catalogue raisonné of the paintings of Philip Guston.