French School, Second Half of the 18th Century

Roy Miles,
By whom anonymously sold, New York, Parke-Bernet, 6 March 1975, lot 125, for $5,250 (as by Alfred de Dreux);
There purchased by the present owners.

This canvas appears to be unlined. The paint layer is stable and in very good state. Color and detail have been nicely preserved throughout, and slight impastos are still evident in the foliage in the background and in the coat of the greyhound. A small spot of retouch is visible in the lower right foreground, which seems to address a small nick or tear in the canvas. Under ultraviolet light, a few scattered spots of retouch are visible, concentrated mainly in the lower portion of the trunk of the tree to the left and in the grass around the hind legs of the dog. There are no significant retouches in the figure of the dog itself. Although the sky fluoresces darkly under ultraviolet light, this does not appear to be because of retouch, but is likely caused by a glaze or varnish used in this area. Overall, this picture is fresh and presents quite well. It could be hung as is. In a carved, gilt wood frame, with small nicks and abrassions throughout.
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.