J.(?) Charbonnier

Collection of the Ribeyre family (their coat-of-arms lower right);
With Galerie Pardo, Paris, 1955; 
Private collection;
Anonymous sale, Paris, Tajan, 18 December 2002, lot 37.

Amsterdam, Rijksmuseum, Le Triomphe du maniérisme européen de Michel-Ange à Gréco, 1955, no.42.

The catalogue illustration is a little too bright. The support appears to consist of a series of horizontal panels that are cradled on the reverse; however, it was not possible to inspect the full reverse of the panel for this report. The paint surface is in reasonable condition with some wear and thinness to the darks, shadows and background. Along the most evident panel join, that runs horizontallly throught the centre (i.e. through the bridge in the middle distance, there is some retouching and restored paint loss. At the centre left edge there is a diagonal surface split that cantinues for approx. 15 cm, and there is a smaller surface split just above the centre right margin. There is an area of small restored damages in the centre right foreground. Inspection under ultra-violet light reveals small, minor spot retouchings throughout the figures. the varnish layer is thick and glossy. This painting is in reasonably good overall condition. Sold with a fine carved and gilt wood frame, in good condition. AF*
"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."

Re-discovered in the 1950s this painting is one of a few works from the period signed and dated by the artist. The composition is inspired by an engraving by Giulio Bonasone of 1541 (see S.Massari, Giulio Bonasone , Rome, 1983, no.4, reproduced). Charbonnier allows himself a free interpretation of the engraving and certain motifs, like the tall naked man in the foreground, are his own invention.