Michel-Martin Drölling

The canvas has been recently relined, and the painting recently cleaned restored and revarnished. Much of the background has been largely strengthened or repainted. The bottom of the tunic of the central, semi naked figure, and his thigh, are repainted. The background has been quite extensively strengthened and there are a numbrr of retouchings to the extreme right background. There are small retouchings scattered throughout the figures and some further minor patches of strengthening throughout.
"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."

Michel-Martin was the son and pupil of the French painter Martin Drölling but he also trained in the studio of Jacques-Louis David, whose neo-classical style clearly influenced the younger Drölling and can be felt in the present work.