Jean-Victor Bertin

The painting is cooler and less red than the catalogue illustration suggests. The canvas is unlined, but still with bounce, and is still on its original stretcher, with three small patches attached to the reverse. A small hole and paint loss can be made out in the centre of the canvas, as well as a 10 cm horizontal tear at the edge of the lake lower left. The paint surface is clean and appears to the naked eye to be in good condition. Some discoloured retouchings can be made out in the sky. Inspection under UV light reveals the aforemnetioned retouchings in the sky which are quite extensive but localised. Two small restored holes can be made out lower left and in the tree centre right. Some minor retouchings are scattered as well as some further retouchings in the foreground and brown tones lower right where some p[ast abrasion can be made out. Offered in a carved and gilt wood frame in fair 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."

A now lost canvas of this subject by Bertin, of larger dimensions (142 by 195 cm) was exhibited at the Paris Salon of 1801 and this is thus a secondary version of that original.