Charles-Louis Clérisseau

There are a few small creases that have been recently corrected in the clouds of the sky, and in the top of the central corinthian column. Overall in very good condition. Sold in a 18th century carved gilt frame, stamped "C.PEPIN".
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.

Clérisseau trained as an architect in Paris.  In 1755 he went to Italy, where he taught, and was subsequently employed by, Robert Adam.  He worked in Russia in the 1770s for Catherine the Great, and later went on to collaborate with Thomas Jefferson on the design of the Virginia State Capitol.  Robert Adam recorded that Clérisseau drew constantly.  He was particularly prolific during the 1760s and 'his ruins', as Adam referred to these drawings, were the means by which he made his living.  The present work is typical of his vedute di fantasia in which, using the very decorative medium of gouache, he would concoct views of ruins from his broad knowledge of classical decorations, peopling them with picturesque figures.  For an account of his drawings, see Thomas J. McCormick, Charles-Louis Clérisseau and the Genesis of Neo-Classicism, Cambridge, Mass., 1990, pp. 117-124.

A version of this composition, in pen and wash and with slightly different figures, was sold, Paris, Tajan, 17 March 2004, lot 65.