Ecole Française vers 1662

Collection cabinet M. Le Proust du Perray 1877 (d'après une étiquette au dos)

To the naked eye: The painting appears in satisfactory condition. It has been relined a long time ago, a little bit too strong but that has not compressed the matter. We notice on the reverse of the relined canvas an inscription mentioning the Le Proust du Perray collection in 1877 and also the canvas seller mark. Under UV light: The painting appears under a green uniform varnish. We notice numerous restorations essentially on the left side and the centre of the composition. The bigger repaints are on the almanac and the book just above. We can notice also some restorations on the centre, in each side of the hourglass. The painting seems to have been rolled and unrolled and restored.
"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."