French School, mid 18th Century

Laid down on an old mount (probably 18th or early 19th century). One small hole towards left centre, and one or two minor spots, left side. Some slight surface dirt and rubbing throughout, but chalk remains generally strong and overall condition is good. Sold unframed.
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 and the following lot are striking in their subject matter and lively in their execution. They bore an attribution to Gillot, probably as much because of the unusual subjects as for the technique of red chalk with wash. Those connections seem superficial, however, and the figure style is of a slightly later date. The Stregonerie has a long history, going back to Salvator Rosa and forward to Desprez and Fuseli. The present drawings seem to be by a French artist, but no convincing attribution has been found, and one should not exclude the possibility that they are by a German artist, working in the tradition of Schönfeld and his followers. The similarity with Desprez is worth noting, especially when one looks at his bizarre print La Chimère de M. Desprez, but red chalk drawings by him are not known and these seem earlier in taste.