James-Jacques-Joseph Tissot

in excellent condition. The blue paper is very fresh and a strong blue- less grey than appears in the catalogue illustration. Some very slight light brown lines at the lower and upper margins, from where a previous mount covered the edges of the sheet. The paper is slightly browned near the upper right corner. Some tiny pin holes at each corner. Two other pin holes near the centre of the upper margin.
"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."

Although it is not known whether this drawing relates to a finished painting, the quality of the draughtsmanship demonstrates Tissot's considerable technical abilities. The delicacy with which he has rendered the folds of the silk brocade of the seated woman's dress demonstrates Tissot's interest in rich fabrics and fashionable costume. The gown of the woman by the primary figure and the subsidiary sketches of women drinking and smiling cordially, of a gentleman in a top-hat and of a girl in the simpler costume perhaps of a waitress, suggest that the sketches may have been painted at one of the Parisian bars or restaurants that Tissot and his Impressionist compatriots found so inspirational in the 1860s and 1870s.