Alfred Sisley

François Depeaux, Rouen
Sale: Hotel de Ventes d'Enghien, Enghien-les-Bains, November 19, 1988, lot 9
Sale: Sotheby's, London, November 29, 1989, lot 418
J.P.L. Fine Arts, London (purchased at the above sale)
Neffe-Degandt Fine Art, London
Acquired from the above in June 1999

Richard Shone, Sisley, London, 1992, no. 158, illustrated p. 200

Very good condition. Executed on buff colored wove paper. The extreme perimeter of the sheet is backed with strips of Japan paper, which is in turn hinged to a mount at two places on the verso. Edges are deckled. The edging may be to address a one-inch repaired tear to the lower right edge. Colors are bright and fresh.
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.

Camille Mauclair wrote of Sisley in 1912: "He is the painter of great blue rivers curving towards the horizon; of blossoming orchards; of bright hills with red-roofed hamlets scattered about; he is beyond all, the painter of French skies which he presents with admirable vivacity and facility. He has the feeling for transparency of atmosphere" (quoted in Mary Anne Stevens, ed., Alfred Sisley, London, 1992, p. 24). In the present work, the artist captures a gaggle of geese at the water's edge amid verdant trees set against the brilliant blue sky. The goose girl faces the viewer head on, imbuing Sisley's quiet rural setting with a human presence, while the trees in the distance show the golden glinting of late afternoon sun.