Condition is not a footnote

Buyers new to the salerooms often treat the condition report as small print. It is not: for most categories it is the single largest variable in the price after attribution.

An unlined canvas in original state will consistently outperform a comparable picture that has been relined, flattened and extensively retouched. For prints it is impression, colour and margins; for armour it is originality of the parts and how much of the gilding survives.

We publish a condition summary on every lot and issue a full report on request. If a report is not offered, ask why.