The Death of Sir Philip Sidney, Sir David Wilkie, R.A.

Sir David Wilkie, R.A.
Fifie 1785 - 1841 at sea off Gibraltar
The Death of Sir Philip Sidney

oil on panel
panel: 14 1/4 by 9 3/4 in.; 36.1 by 24.7 cm.
framed: 20 1/4 by 16 1/4 in.; 51.4 by 41.2 cm.

Condition Report:
The panel is flat and has been backed with a piece of linen which has been adhered to wood with wax. The image reads well beneath a clear, shiny varnish. Three vertical cracks are present: one from the bottom center through the pink sleeve of one the sitters, a second from the top in the upper right through the sky, and a third adjacent to the second in the upper right quadrant. They are not distracting to the overall composition. Under UV inspection, retouching is visible along the cracks as well as small strokes in the figures' faces and clothing. We recommend contacting an independent restorer to discuss any repairs related to the cracks but the painting can be hung in its current state. Offered in a carved giltwood frame.
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.