NICOLAS TOURNIER | Esau selling his birthright to Jacob for a pottage of lentils

The canvas has a firm relining that has slightly flattened the paint surface. The varnish appears thick and somewhat uneven, and a little discoloured. There are no major damages visible to the naked eye bar a very slight degree of wear in some areas and a distinctive craquelure in the hand and right cuff of Jacob. Inspection under ultra violet light reveals scattered small restored damages and retouchings throughout - they are mostly minor and of a seemingly cosmetic nature. The main concentration of the retouchings is in the forearm and hand of Jacob, in his face, and in an area of shadow under Esau's outstretched arm. The most significant of the restored damages is what appears to be an old tear at the right margin in the background - 5 inches horizontally then another 5 inches vertically. In fair overall condition for a canvas of this size and offered in a carved and gilt wood frame in 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.
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.