Alexandre Gabriel Decamps

Not examined out of its frame and under glass, the sheet is sound, and the work is overall in very good condition, with fresh colours. Held in a gold-painted moulded plaster and wood frame.
"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."

Decamps, together with Delacroix, was one of the first French Orientalist painters. In 1828 Decamps travelled to Smyrna where he executed numerous drawings of the local people and environs on the spot, which were later used in his studio in Paris as the basis of his Orientalist paintings. The present work displays the spontaneity typical of such quick sketches, taken in situ.