VERY RARE AND HISTORIC PAINTED PINE 'CROCODILE' TAVERN SIGN, G. D. WITTS INN, KINGSTON, NEW YORK, CIRCA 1800

VERY RARE AND HISTORIC PAINTED PINE 'CROCODILE' TAVERN SIGN, G. D. WITTS INN, KINGSTON, NEW YORK, CIRCA 1800

original paint on pine with original wrought iron hanging brackets. Inscribed CROCODILE G.D.WITTS INN.

Height 22 in by Width 39 in.

Condition Report:
In very fine untouched condition with no signs of inpainting, overpainting, or paint removal. Scattered loss throughout and some water damage along proper right edge commensurate with age and outdoor situ. Drip under "D" of CROCODILE lettering. Additional photos show the scaling pattern that the artist etched into the crocodile's back and tail, likely with the handle end of the brush. Appears to retain original hardware.

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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.

Provenance:
JMW Auction Gallery, Rosendale, New York, October 30, 2004;

Jack Whistance, Kingston, New York;

Giampietro American Folk Art, New Haven, Connecticut.