Jacques Courtois, called Il Borgognone

The catalogue illustrations are much too pale and red in tone. Both canvases have old relinings which are still sounds. The paint surface in both pictures is in reasonably good condition but some of the more thinly painted effects of smoke and the middle distance have suffered from wear. The foreground figures are generally well preserved but those in the lower picture have suffered in parts from abrasion and loss of detail. Inspection under ultra violet light is impeded by the old varnish but the lower picture appears in very good overall order with restoration confined to disguising wear in the smoke whereas its companion has numerous extensive scattered retouchings across most of the sky. There are no major damages and the foregrounds of both pictures appear to be well preserved and free from intervention. The old restoration has now discoloured and in the upper picture is clearly visible to the naked eye. The varnish layer has now yellowed. Offered in matching modern gilt wood frames in the Italian baroque style in good condition.
"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."

The central figure of the latter painting shown riding the white horse and wearing a plumed hat recurs in a smaller painting of similar composition sold in these Rooms 17 April 1991, lot 8.