Alexander Nasmyth

The canvas has a stiff relining which has pressed the surface. The paint surface is beginning to flake in places and there is a loss lower left beside the margin. Previous cleaning has worn the paint surface in the foreground. There is strong craquelure in the darker pigments which disrupts the unity of the composition, but the sky is much better-preserved. The varnish is clear. Inspection under ultraviolet light shows a very milky varnish. In the foreground: there is infilling of craquelure throughout; restrengthening to the darker browns in the branches, roots, and undergrowth. In the middle distance there is some infilling of craquelure. In the sky: there are a handful of small areas of infilling of craquelure; a vertical repaired tear in the centre, measuring 3 cm.; and a repaired small lost flake of paint lower left. Overall the painting needs attention from a restorer to settle the flaking in the foreground and redefine some of the thinned areas, but the sky is still beautifully intact.
"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."