Henri-Pierre Danloux

The canvas appears to be unlined or very thinly relined. The surface is clean and the painting is presentable as is. The overall condition is very good with lovely retention of detail in the figure and the background foliage which is very broadly painted. Under UV light: the varnish fluoresces unevenly; there is some inpainting to craquelure on chest and a few tiny, pinprick retouches to nose. A few isolated retouches in the upper and lower background. These cosmetic retouches have been well applied and there is no need for any further work. In a gilt wood frame with beaded decoration.
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 young sitter in this charming, unfinished portrait has been traditionally identified as Master Hugh Grant, possibly a son of James Grant of Castle Grant (1738-1811), who could have met Danloux on the artist's visit to Edinburgh in 1796. The work can be compared stylistically to Danloux's portrait of Mademoiselle Marie de l'Isle.¹

1. Sold at Tajan, Paris, 22 June 1999, lot 33.