Louis Abel-Truchet

Relined. A minor chip is missing in the lower center, by the frame. The matter is thin in some areas and small wears are visible, especially by the frame, in the upper right. Under UV light, no repaint is visible. In the lower right, a small rectangle fluoresces which may correspond to a label. Very good overall 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."

This painting is probably a preparatory study, highly detailed, with several variantes, for a larger painting (89 x 89cm) sold at Sotheby's, New York, on November 22nd 2016.

At the end of the 19th Century, Paris witnesses a proliferation of concert halls, cabarets, cinemas, circuses and cafes, many of which were chronicled by artistes such as Béraud, Degas, Picasso, Toulouse-Lautrec, Seurat. Perhaps the most exhilirating entertainment for both the public and artists, however, was that of the fête foraine, a large fair bustling with attractions, games and saltimbanques, or tight-rope walkers, acrobats, etc.