Charles Victor Thirion

The following condition report has been provided by Simon Parkes of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc. 502 East 74th St. New York, NY 212-734-3920, simonparkes@msn.com, an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. This painting is in lovely condition in many ways. However, the canvas has a lining which is no longer effective and should be reversed. The painting is very dirty and should be cleaned. The most noticeable element to the condition is the un-retouched cracking immediately to the right of the child’s face and to a lesser degree in the upper and lower left. There does not, however, appear to be any abrasion to the paint layer. The condition of the figure itself is extremely good. With the right attention, including changing the lining, the only retouching should be focused entirely on the cracking which has developed – none of which is in the face or figure – and is certainly to be expected from a work of this period.
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.