François-Xavier Vispré Besançon circa 1720 - after 1780 London

The actual painting is slightly less bright than the catalogue illustration suggests. The canvas has a rather firm relining. The paint surface seems to be in good condition. There's one very tiny dent in the upper left corner of the music sheet and a light horizontal fold, which has been retouched, can be seen running from left to right just below the upper edge. A spot of retouching can be observed to the upper right, possibly relating an old tear. Inspection under ultra violet light confirms the aforesaid retouchings, and reveals additional tiny scattered retouchings along the edges of the sheets as well as along the outer edges. This lot is offered unframed. (MW)
"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."

Vispré was an engraver who specialised in mezzotints, as well as a painter on glass and porcelain, and of trompe l'oeils such as this one. Similar trompe l'oeils are in the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Dijon.  Visprè's early career was in Paris, but by 1764 he was in London, and from 1776 until 1780 he was recorded in Dublin.