Georges Rouault

Private Collection (acquired circa the 1980s)
By descent to the present owner

The canvas is relined. There are some diagonal hairline scratches to the impasto on top of the figure's head and some very minor shrinkage in the light turquoise of the collar. There is no evidence of retouching under UV light; this work is in very 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."

“For Rouault says: I am a clown, he has depicted himself as a clown […]. The sequinned costume of the fool, the entertainer, is a necessary response to a need. It is the pauper’s feast, the feast of the pauper, towards which goes – he says in a phrase tinged with the poignant accent of Bernanos – he that wishes to “forget long winters, joyless days, hard and hostile masks, sorrowful spirits, dried-up hearts”. The route of the circus, familiar from our dreams, whispers that there is an East that our hearts so need.”

Gaëtan Picon, "Dans la lignée de Goya", in Hommage à Georges Rouault, Paris, 1971, p. 36