Claude-Louis Châtelet

The canvas has been relined. Which can be seen the picture is unframed, around the edges where the original canvas has been placed on the newer one. Overall the condition of the painting is very good. Some retouches have been applied along some areas of craquelure for reinforcement, notably in the middle right section of the canvas, and along the left edges. There are also some retouches in the sky at the topmost part of the composition, visible under UV. Despite these retouches, the vast majority of the composition appears to have been left untouched. The water, figures, trees, and waterfall at top are all in lovely state. The painting has retained most of its original paint and coloration and is in a good state of preservation. In a carved and giltwood frame with a few small nail holes on the inner part of the frame.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The spectacular cascades near Terni, north of Rome, are some of the highest in Europe.  They occur where the Velino drains into the larger Nera river and reach a height of 650 ft.  They were a popular site for the 18th Century vedutisti and Châtelet was one of a number of artists who depicted them.  This particular composition must have proved popular as he painted several versions, and it was often paired with a pendant depicting the Large Cascade at Terni.  Another example of the present composition by Châtelet, showing the same view and identical staffage, was sold, New York, Sotheby's, October 13, 1989, lot 67.  Other examples sold with its pendant include those sold London, Sotheby's, December 14, 2000, lot 224;  and the smaller pair sold, Monaco, Sotheby's, June 21, 1991, lot 149.