FRANCIS PICABIA | Sans Titre

It has not been possible to see the work entirely unframed. Executed on brown wove paper, laid down on canvas. The work is slightly undulating. Examination under UV light reveals an area of fluorescence (approx. 17 by 7 cm) to the upper left quadrant, smaller spots of fluorescence in the sea, towards the centre of the lower edge and a few additional minor dots of fluorescence in places, most predominately in the lower right quadrant, all of them do not appear to be related to any retouching. There are a few small repaired tears (the longest of which is approx. 4 cm long) in places, most predominately to the upper part of the composition and towards the centre of the lower edge. There are some thin lines of stable craquelure to the most thickly applied pigment and some small areas of stable paint shrinkage, notably to the sky. Impasto is nice and rich. This work is in overall good condition and could benefit from a light clean.
"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."

This work will be included in the forthcoming catalogue raisonné being prepared by the Comité Picabia.