A Magnificent Neoclassical style painted and carved ivory portait of Louis XVI Possibly Dieppe, circa 1875-80

of architectural outline, the crest surmounted by an arched reserve surrounding a coat of arms with interlaced L beneath a crown and flanked by facing chimera, flanked by a baluster pierced gallery with columns headed by flaming urns, the finely painted plaque on ivory of King Louis XVI signed Collet to the lower right within a mother of pearl banding set within a elaborate frame adorned by classical figure set in niche.

Overall in good condition with age cracks throughout filled with dirt. Some restoration and replacements throughout with faux ivory. Minor chips and losses in places to decor. We would strongly advise the potential purchaser to have a professional ivory restorer comment further on the overall condition. Please note this lot contains endangered species and a CITES permit will be necessary for export. Please contact the department with any questions.
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.

This painted panel is directly drawn from Louis XVI's official portrait made by Antoine-François Callet (1741-1823). The original painting executed in 1786 now hangs in the Salon d'Apollon or the Salon du Trône at the Château de Versailles. Besides the original portrait from which the present lot is inspired, Callet's Allégorie du dix-huit brumaire ou la France sauvée and Allégorie de la bataille d'Austerlitz also hung at Versailles.