Jean-Baptiste Pillement

This signed canvas is unlined and in very good state indeed. The paint surface is well- preserved, with the evening light in the sky and against the rocky landscape and thick foliage retaining their delicate effects. The herd of animals led by the shepherd are also very charming to look at in their minute detail. Inspection under UV light reveals two campaigns of restoration, the older consisting of restoration throughout the sky and to the central band in the rock face. The more recent campaign consists of repair down the left hand side, measuring 16 cm, the second a line measuring 8 cm upper left, both probably the results of an old stretcher mark. A few spot retouchings lower right corner, and an area in the darker parts of the background foliage lower left. All these restorations have been expertly carried out and are unnoticeable to the naked eye. This lot is offered in a gilt frame with ornate mouldings, some of the gilding has rubbed off to reveal the red underpaint, this combines well with the reds in the picture itself. Otherwise it is in excellent condition, with only two tiny knocks to the mouldings.
"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."