ATTRIBUTED TO NICOLAS PINEAU (1684-1754) AND DOMINIQUE PINEAU (1718-1786), FRENCH, MID-18TH CENTURYDOG ATTACKING A DUCK AMONG THE REEDS |

carved and painted wood imitating terracotta

RELATED LITERATURE
B. Pons, Grands décors français 1650-1800, Dijon, 1995, pp. 269-282.

In overall very good condition with minor chips to the high points in some places and surface dirt consistent with age and handling. This wooden group appears to have been formerly gilt. Very good carving, precise in all details.
"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 exquisite carving work is comparable to the works of Nicolas Pineau and his son Dominique, whose oeuvres include the decorations for the Grand Salon of the Castle of Asnières, vacation residence of the Marquis de Voyer (1722-1782), son of Count d'Argenson, executed in circa 1750 under the direction of Jacques Hardouin-Mansart, called Mansart de Sagonne. The decoration was dismantled at the end of the 19th century and some elements were acquired by Lord Astor for Cliveden House, Buckinghamshire.
Other elements of similar woodwork were exhibited by the Gismondi Gallery, at the Paris Biennale, in the early 2000s.