ALBERT PÉNOT | La femme chauve-souris

Private collection, France (by 1912)

Paris, Salon des Artistes français, 1912, no. 1463 (as Premier miroir)

Patrick Bade, Femme fatale: images of evil and fascinating women, London, 1979, p. 123, no. 30, catalogued & illustrated (as Bat Woman); also illustrated on the back cover

The canvas has been lined. Ultra-violet light reveals some minor isolated spots of cosmetic retouching, including in the woman's left wing, and one circa 5cm stroke in the background in the lower left quadrant possibly addressing an old repair. This has somewhat discoloured in time and is also visible to the naked eye upon close inspection. This work is otherwise in good condition and ready to hang. Presented in a silver frame with an inner slip.
"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."

Painted circa 1890.