Follower of Claude Joseph Vernet

The canvas has been lined, the paint surface is slightly dirty, and the varnish is even but discoloured. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals very little intervention, except for restoration to an old vertical tear, approx. 10 cm. long, upper left, in the foliage of the trees, as well as small, minor areas of retouching in the dark of the cliff arch, centre, to the left of the figures, lower left, and just above this group. The painting appears otherwise to be in untouched condition and would benefit from a light clean. In overall very good condition.
"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."

A copy after the original early painting by Vernet that was dated by Ingersoll-Smouse to 1740–45, when recorded by her in the collection of Leurs et Simmons, Paris.¹ The original was later listed as having been on the Paris art market that same year.² Vernet's lost composition is recorded in an engraving by Pierre Jacques Duret.³

1. Ingersoll-Smouse, Joseph Vernet, Paris 1926, vol. I, p. 68 and vol. II, p. 47, cat. no. 1236.
2. P. Conisbee, Claude-Joseph Vernet, exh. cat., 4 June – 19 September 1976, under cat. no. 82.
3. See Ingersoll-Smouse, 1926, vol. I, p. 68, reproduced pl. XXXXV, fig. 104.