HENRI HAYDEN | Nature morte au jeu d'échecs

Roland, Browse & Delbanco, London
Selected Artists Galleries Inc., New York
Sale: Sotheby's, London, 29th June 1988, lot 164
Private Collection (purchased at the above sale)
Sale: Hôtel Drouot, Paris, 24th March 1997, lot 186
Sale: Sotheby's, London, 25th June 1997, lot 276
Private Collection, New York (purchased at the above sale)
Sale: Christie's, London, 7th February 2006, lot 352
Purchased at the above sale by the present owner

The canvas is not lined. Examination under UV light reveals scattered flecks of retouching in places, in particular beneath the base of the candlestick, to the chessboard and some further spots to the jug, as well as some spots of retouching to the extreme edges relating to frame abrasion. There is some minor pigment shrinkage visible, most noticeably to the white pigment of the jug. There is a tiny fleck of paint loss to the red pigment towards the right part of the lower edge. This work is in overall 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. 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."

The authenticity of this work has been confirmed by Pierre Célice.