Charles Paul Landon

The canvas is unlined and in good condition. Overall the paint surface is in very good condition with paint work well-preserved. There is delicate under drawing visible around the face, in the eyes and nose. Inspection under ultra violet light shows older retouching in her upper neck and right cheek, and newer very small retouchings to the right of her mouth, in her left cheek, and in the flower basket (measuring less than 1x1cm.). Otherwise the work appears to be untouched. The varnish appears to be even. Offered in a gilt frame with mouldings, small scratches and damages but structurally sound.
"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."

This hitherto unknown work by Landon was originally part of a decorative cycle depicting the seasons. The Autumn of the same series was sold in these Rooms, 10 July 2003, lot 205, for £13,000. The whereabouts of Spring and Winter are unknown.

We are grateful to Katell Martineau, who has confirmed the attribution on the basis of photographs, and who will include the picture in her forthcoming catalogue raisonné on the painter, as cat. no. 27.