Constant Troyon

The artist's studio (and sold, Hôtel Drouot, Paris, January 21-23, 1886, lot 94)
Sale: Palais des Congrès, Versailles, June 6, 1972, lot 119
Sale: Christie's, New York, May 22, 1990, lot 176, illustrated (for $33,000)
Acquired at the above sale by the present owner

Lined. Overall the surface presents well, aside from surface dirt and dust, varnish discoloration in the sky, and minor frame abrasion at the extreme edges. There is a line of discolored retouching in the shape of an upward facing 'J' visible across the backs of the sheep at lower right. Under UV: this discolored retouching is visible. There are a few isolated finely applied small areas, pinpoint dots and dashes of retouching in the sky and foreground, with some scattered retouches at the edges.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

At the age of 37, Constant Troyon visited Holland, where he was much influenced by the work of the Dutch Golden Age painters Aelbert Cuyp and Paulus Potter, who were famous for their depiction of animals. This discovery complemented Troyon’s earlier experience in the Forest of Fontainebleau with other Barbizon artists and it would remain a deep interest throughout his entire career.

We would like to thank Michel Schulman for confirming the authenticity of the present work.