Marguerite Gérard

The painting is slightly warmer in tone than the catalogue illustration suggests. The canvas has an old relining. The paint surface is somewhat flat but secure, under a slightly yellowed varnish. The colours of the work seem well-preserved and a fine craquelure runs throughout. There is some frame abrasion along the lower, right hand and upper margins, and a small area of old paint loss in the upper left hand corner. There is a small old knock upper right, and some specks of surface dirt visible lower centre, below the gentlemans left foot, as visible in the catalogue illustration. Satisfactory inspection under UV light is impeded by the reflective varnish covering the work. No retouchings fluoresce. Offered in an ornate gilt wood and plaster frame in good condition, with a few minor knocks.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."