A fan, French, mid 19th Century

with pierced, carved and gilded mother of pearl guards and sticks, the leaf, signed A. Soldé, painted with 18^{th century gallants, recto, an amour vingette, verso}

Some rubbing to the gilt decoration on the guards and sticks. The paper, recto, is spilt significantly on four folds, the skin verso with two spilts (one breaking through to the other side). The painting is skillfully done.
"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."

Alexendre Solé (1822-1893) a painter of genre and historical subjects exhibited at the Salon between 1844 and 1868.