Antoine Perrot

Anonymous sale, London, Sotheby's, 26 April 2007, lot 141;
Purchased at the above sale by the present owner.

The canvas has not been lined. There is a pattern of hairline craquelure on the painting surface which seems to be stable. Ultra-violet light reveals very few signs of cosmetic retouching, notably in the sky and to the upper left corner, and an area of fluorescence in the orange pigments of the sunset probably due to old cleaning. The picture is in otherwise good condition and ready to hang. Presented in a decorative gilt frame.
"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."

Born in Paris in 1787, Antoine Perrot was celebrated for his landscapes and city views painted during his travels. Viewed from the south bank of the river Arno, Perrot has taken a degree of artistic licence in including Florence's main landmarks in a single view. Facing the viewer is the old Ponte delle Grazie with small houses on top similarly to the Ponte Vecchio which is visible in the distance, whereas to the right are the Palazzo Vecchio, Santa Croce and the Duomo. Other views of Florence by the artist may be seen in the Musée des Beaux Arts, Quimper, and in the Assemblée Nationale, Paris.