Hubert Robert Paris 1733 - 1801

Laid down on old (presumably 18th-century) blue mount. Some slight foxing and light brown stains but overall condition good and chalk very fresh.
"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."

This is a characteristic type of composition in which Robert places a dramatic central tree beside a classical building to create a romantic impression.  The round temple is reminiscent of the Temple of Filial Piety at Méréville.¹  It was about 1786 that Robert undertook the designs for the garden of the extremely wealthy financier Laborde at Méréville.  This was a very ambitious project and according to the artist's contemporaries, the most beautiful he ever undertook.  Robert was chosen for these gardening activities because of his known talent for blending landscape and architecture in harmonious ways.  He was nominated 'Dessinateur des Jardins du Roi'  and employed by Louis XVI to design the gardens at Versailles and Rambouillet. 

1. See, for instance, the painting in the Musée des Beaux-arts, Rouen: Jean de Cayeux, Hubert Robert et Les Jardins, Paris 1987, p. 102 no. 80, reproduced  p. 103