interesting question
after a good deal of thought I'd say you should remove the paint. Normally I believe in letting things remain in the condition I found them in unless they are degrading or aestetically unappealing.
Whether or not the added paint was contemporaneously applied by the original purchaser or later - it was not sold that way, the owner added nothing but an interpretation of the original scene usurping the manufacturer's and artist's intent as well, and leaving it as is makes it more likely to be percieved as a folk art piece. I suppose there's more to it but I'm working on a project. Just my nickle........
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