Alexis-Simon Belle

Anonymous sale, Paris, Nouveau Drouot, 1 July 1988, lot 87 (as attributed to Robert Levrac, called Tourniers);
Where acquired by the present owner.
 

The painting has been recently restored with a new lining and stretcher and the paint surface is in stable and good condition. The canvas appears to have been extended at all sides, though these additions are period and inspection under UV reveals retouching to the join lines running 5 in. parallel to the upper and left edges, 4 in. parallel to the lower edge and 3 in. parallel to the right edge. There is an area of old repaired damage, approximately 3 by 10 in., that has been filled and repainted and some retouching to the lower edge. The face appears to be largely untouched with only very small amounts of retouching in the nose. All the restorations have been sensitively applied and the painting requires no further work, it is ready to hang in its present state. Offered in an elaborately carved 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.

Alexis Simon Belle, one of the outstanding portraitists of the reigns of Louis XIV and Louis XV, was born in Paris on January 12, 1674 and received his initial training in the studio of François de Troy.  In 1701, he became official painter at Saint-Germain-en-Laye to the exiled Stuart king of England, James II, who resided there with his court.   His success at the French court too is remarkable, and among his masterpieces are likenesses of the young Louis XV and the Spanish princess to whom he was betrothed, the Infanta Maria Anna Victoria, in the Musée National du Château de Versailles.  In this handsome painting, the bewigged sitter, dressed in elegant finery, prepares to sweeten the cup of chocolate held in his left hand.