Carle van Loo Nice 1705 - 1765 Paris

On the back of the frame is pasted a description of this drawing taken from a sale catalogue.  A very indistinct pen inscription seems to read Clement and 1884.  Lugt records Count L. Clément de Ris sale in Paris, 16 February 1884.

Laid down on old mount. Paper has perhaps slightly darkened all over but chalk is strong.
"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."

An old label written in pen and pink ink and attached to the backing below the drawing reads as follows:
Mme Van loo/ née Sommis, soeur du célebre musicien de ce nom, elle même-/célebre Musicienne, qui a eté l'objet de l'admiration de tous-/les gens de goût pour (les) graces de son chant dans les concerts./Epouse de Carle Vanloo, originaire d'une famille noble de flandre, Chevalier/Romain et de l'ordre de S M...1er peintre du Roi de france, mort à Paris.../a l'age de 61.
Van Loo married Christina Antonia Somis in 1733, while he was living in Turin and in the service of Charles-Emanuel III, Duke of Savoy and King of Sardinia.  She was a celebrated opera singer.  They returned to Paris in 1734 where he quickly achieved success.  This drawing, although unusually large, is characteristic of his portrait drawings.