A grey racehorse on Newmarket Heath held by a groom

The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.

The canvas has been relined and retains a strong tension at the present time. The artist’s painterly ability remains appreciable though the general texture of the paint is uniform as a consequence of the lining treatment. There are a few minor surface scratches and an even, stable craquelure throughout, which is not visually distracting. Pentimenti is visible to the legs of the groom. Ultra-violet fluorescence examination reveals some passages of retouching, predominantly strengthening to the sky and the outlines of the background around the horse and figures. There has been extensive but sensitive retouching along the lines of the historic craquelure. The depth of colour applied by the artist remains in a good state of preservation and the picture presents very well in its frame.