Adrien Jean Le Mayeur de Merprès

The painting is in good condition, as is the canvas. There are some indications of wear and handling to the edges but the paint layers are well-preserved.The painting was photographed for the catalogue before it was brought to a restorer and in the process of restoring the painting, the restorer discovered a few overpainted areas and restored it to its prior condition. When the restorer took away the overpaint, he uncovered some details that were "lost" before. As a result, there is a slight difference between the catalogue illustration and the painting as it looks at present. The two main differences are on the lower left corner (staircase) and middle (figure in pink sarong holding offerings). The overpaint depicted the figure as holding the offering with one arm but the restorer had seen traces of the limbs under the overpaint and the newly restored version shows two arms holding it, which is more consistent with the custom of Balinese women then and is now a more accurate portrayal of Le Mayeur's Balinese scenes. Restoration are apparent only under ultraviolet light. Framed in a gilded frame. Please contact the Specialist Department for an image of the restored painting.
"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."

"...He was very impressed with the love of the Balinese for the artistic, particularly in their worship and it is this aspect of their life which he was emphasised. The artist has produced coloured pictures without entering into great detail. Many of his pictures are of scenes outside a temple, and he has secured a perfect effect of the tropical morning by introducing against the luminous grey background vivid colours of dresses and flowers."

CITED IN THE MALAYA TRIBUNE, FEBRUARY 28, 1933, P.105.