Lucien-Victor Guirand de Scévola

Unexamined out of frame and under glass, the sheet is sound and apart from a few flecks of surface detritus and some flecks of damp to the left edge, this work is in very good condition, with fresh colours and fine detail, and ready to hang. Held in a decorative, gold-painted moulded plaster and wood frame with putti motifs, under glass.
"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."

The present work is part of Guirand de Scévola's repertoire of ethereal and timeless young girls, bedecked with delicate jewels set off by the rich tones and textures of luxurious fabrics (see also lot 245). The glint of precious stones against the even, dark tones of the princess' robes are reminiscent of the handling of Gustave Moreau (lot 215).

Guirand de Scévola was a student of Fernand Cormon and Pierre Dupuis, exhibiting regularly at the Salon from 1889 and becoming a member of the Comité de la Société Nationale des Beaux-Arts. With the Pre-Raphaelites' second wave of popularity in France in the 1890s, he incorporated elements of their subjects and aesthetics into his oeuvre. Starting in 1894, Guirand de Scévola fully embraced Symbolism and focused exclusively on his depictions of radiant, otherworldly muses.