Circle of Piat-Joseph Sauvage

With Etienne Levy, Paris;
From whom purchased by the present owner.

Oil on paper laid down on canvas. The surface is somewhat flattened but fresh and clean. There are a few very minor vertical disturbances barely visible through the putti at top center, perhaps related to stretcher bar. Under UV light, there are scattered vertical and horizontal lines of in paint in the drapery at top. There are also two spots in the back of the putti at upper center. A line of retouching visible in the male figure’s stomach and a few scattered dots of inpainting visible in the female. Two areas of inpaint visible to the right and left of the shin of the man's extended leg. A few small scattered additional spots of in painting in the picture especially at the edges. In overall good condition and ready to hang.
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.

The composition of the present lot follows that of François Le Moyne's Hercules and Omphale (Louvre). This work follows the direction of the engraving by Laurent Cars.