Pierre-Auguste Renoir

Ambroise Vollard, Paris
O'Hana Gallery, London
Collection Larcade (acquired from the above)
Acquired by the previous owner in the 1980s

Ambroise Vollard, Tableaux, pastels et dessins de Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Paris, 1918, no. 561, illustrated pl. 141 

The canvas is unlined. There is a small faint area of retouching to the green pigment in the upper left quadrant, visible under ultra-violet light, that corresponds to a small patch on the reverse. Apart from a few tiny hairlines of craquelure, this work is in good condition. Colours: Overall fairly accurate, although the yellow of the woman's dress is more pronounced in the original.
"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."

Renoir painted this tranquil scene of an elegant young woman at a fountain at the height of the official Impressionist movement (1874-86). Executed in 1885, this composition capitalises on the lavish effects of Renoir's pastel-toned palette, comprised of soft pinks, blues and greens. By this point in his career, Renoir had made a solid and respectable reputation for himself among members of the upper class, who were readily buying his paintings. In this particular oil, the plein air subject matter, along with the model's fashionable attire, appealed directly to the sophisticated tastes of Renoir's patrons. As one of the founding members of the Impressionist group, Renoir was an expert at exploring the subtle nuances of light and colour. This picture, created at the very peak of the movement, is indeed a testament to his talents.

Renoir's dealer, Ambroise Vollard (1866-1939), was the first owner of this work. Vollard was one of the most important dealers of modern European art during the first half of the 20th century, and he we well-known for his perspicacious eye and discerning taste. Along with being a great supporter of Renoir's work in the 20th century, he was also a key promoter of the paintings of Cézanne, Gauguin and van Gogh. The present picture was one of the select works that was once a part of Vollard's impressive collection.