A large Composite Needlework Panel, French, late 17th century and later

comprised of four joined panels all worked in gros point in wool and silk, with large exuberant scrolling foliage and stylised floral motifs, on a sable/ebony ground, with a four-sided narrow border with hexagonal shaped floral motifs within blue shaped, scroll surrounds, on a red ground; some wear

*Good colour match with the photograph. This needlework piece is backed with dark green linen, which is coming loose at sides in sections. Attached to main panel with brown thread. There is a hesian inner lining in addition to the canvas of the needlework, evident clearly at the sides in sections where the lining is loose. This can easily be repaired. There are areas with holes and pulled threads, and some sections are more effected than others. Minor repair overall to some panels. The two central panels have the more areas of damage. See for example on the vertical joins, the left edge of the second panel from the left, 1/4 of the way down, there is a hole, which the hesian underneath is visible through, hence being a light area in the photograph with no design. There are holes, further down this side of the second panel, towards the bottom, near the green leaves, again visible is light areas. The third panel from the left has several areas of holes, and some areas of visible canvas, where moth has eaten threads is small areas. Some of the holes are visible as the light areas with no design or paler, ie 1.4 of the way down, small flesh coloured areas are the holes, then down the right side of this panel over half way down, there is a round hole visible. There are a number of repairs. On careful inspection of the photograph, this is evident as the area is less defined and looks more muted than the comparable areas on the other panels. The first panel on the left has a split for example along the left edge, nearly half way up, above the lime green leaf, visible in photograph as white areas. The fourth panel from the left is in better condition generally. Overall appearance very decorative. Unusual to have such a large panel of this type and design. Some holes and splits in need of attention to create a uniform and stable surface.
"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."