Lot 21
  • 21

Marie-François Firmin-Girard

Estimate
40,000 - 60,000 GBP
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Description

  • Marie-François Firmin-Girard
  • Le Quai de la Tournelle, Paris
  • signed FIRMIN-GIRARD lower left
  • oil on panel
  • 38 by 54cm., 15 by 21¼in.

Condition

The panel is flat, even, and ensuring a stable support. There is some minor frame rubbing with one associated small spot of flaking in the centre of the upper framing edge. Inspection under ultra-violet light reveals no visible sign of retouching. This work appears to be in good original condition and is ready to hang. Presented in a decorative gilt frame with a white inner slip.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

Painted circa 1900.

A quintessential view of Paris on a summer's evening, the present work presents a wealth of details, from the young child waving to boats on the river, the horse-drawn omnibus crossing the Pont de l'Archevêché, and even an early cyclist just visible to the left. After a time living in Fontainebleau in the company of his fellow artists, Firmin-Girard returned to Paris and took up the Parisian views exemplified by his masterpiece Quai aux fleurs of 1875 (sold Sotheby's New York, 9 May 2014). 

The authenticity of this work has been confirmed by Patrick Faucheur, great-grandson of the artist, and Victoire Baron who will be including this in the forthcoming Firmin-Girard catalogue raisonné.