- 209
Henri Jan Augustyn Leys
Estimate
6,000 - 8,000 USD
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Description
- Henri Jan Augustyn Leys
- Still life of three skulls
- signed in monogram lower left
- oil on paper, laid down on panel
Condition
The paper layer is made up of several irregular sheets of paper laid on to a panel with a vertical join or crack which is visible from front and runs through the two skulls at left side. there are numerous small scuffs and surface abrasions, but generally the paint surface is very well retained. examination under UV reveals a large area of retouching on table ledge at bottom. a few smaller retouches scattered on skulls. soime of the sheets of paper fluoresce differently indicating, perhaps, that different types of paper were used.
Offered in a gilt wood 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.
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.
Catalogue Note
Leys began his training at the Academy in Antwerp. In 1835 he went to Paris where he visited the studio of Eugène Delacroix. He then traveled to Holland, where he studied the works of the 17th century masters, and to England where he took particular interest in the works of Holbein and Dürer. His work in the 1840s included scenes of Antwerp set in the 16th century, painted in a style deliberately reminiscent of that period. Leys won a gold medal in 1855 at the Exposition Universelle in Paris for his historical painting, The Mass of Berthal de Haze (now in the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, Brussels). He was created a baron in 1862. At the time of his death, Leys was working on a monumental fresco cycle to decorate the Town Hall depicting the history of Antwerp.
An old handwritten label on the reverse indicates that this painting was included in the "Vente Leys." A sale of property from Leys's estate took place in Antwerp on 19-23 December 1893. Though this work is not listed, it may have been included in one of the numerous group lots.
An old handwritten label on the reverse indicates that this painting was included in the "Vente Leys." A sale of property from Leys's estate took place in Antwerp on 19-23 December 1893. Though this work is not listed, it may have been included in one of the numerous group lots.