Achille Etna Michallon

Canvas appears to be unlined. the paint surface is very well preserved, with nice thick impasto. there is lovely retention of the detail throughout. some areas of craquelure can be seen in the landscape, but it is stable and not distracting. ultraviolet light shows some retouching to the trees at upper right and a few others in foliage at left side. a small area of retouching at lower right corner. painting is presentable and can be hung as is. In a gilt neo-classical wood frame with stylized swans at the corners.
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.

This painting is a preparatory sketch for the large painting by Michallon which was exhibited at the Salon of 1822 and is now in the Musée du Louvre, Paris (inv. no. 6633).  The figure of the peasant in a red cap standing amongst the group at center is based on a small figural sketch done by the artist in 1820 of Mazzocchi, a well known Roman brigand (Musée d'Art et d'Histoire, Neuchâtel).

The present lot is accompanied by a certificate from Blandine Lesage stating that this painting will be included in the supplement to her catalogue raisonné on the works of Michallon.