Jakob Philipp Hackert

Anonymous sale, Hamburg, Ketterer Kunst, November 26, 1997, lot 177, for $5,147;
With Eric Coatalem, Paris, 1998.

C. de Seta, Hackert, Naples 2005, p. 199, cat. no. 99, reproduced in color, p. 109.

The panel is uncradled and stable. The paint surface is under a clean varnish. Color and brushstroke are beautifully preserved, as well as the relief of the paint. This painting can be hung as is. Ultraviolet light reveals minute scattered well applied retouching throughout, of two separate generations of restoration. The shadow behind the dog has been reworked, as has the upper left corner. Four areas of half an inch by half an inch along the bottom edge fluoresce. The poodle is very well preserved. This painting is presented in a carved wood gilt frame.
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.

Hackert is best known for his landscapes, which are often enlivened with beasts. However, he also devoted independent art works to animals; studies as well as finished paintings. Hackert's personal love for animals is illustrated in his self portrait where he is accompanied with a cat, a dog, a canary in a cage and a painting on the wall showing goats. During his sojourn in Rome, the artist developed a habit of regularly drawing animals from life. Many studies in various states of finish of dogs, cows, sheep, goats and other animals survive. The present highly finished painting is a most engaging dog portrait, no doubt commissioned by the owner of the sitter. Hackert achieved an extraordinary vivid representation of the dog's appearance and of its playful, attentive character.