Théophile-Louis Deyrolle

Original canvas. There are a few scattered areas of minor retouching visible under ultraviolet light, notably a small circle to the left centre, some flecks to the right centre, and a few flecks to the chin of the 2nd figure from the left. This work is overall in very good condition, with a strong, clean surface, rich colours and fine detail, and ready to hang. Held in a decorative, 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."

Deyrolle was a student of Alexandre Cabanel and William Adolphe Bouguereau, debuting at the Paris Salon of 1876. He is best appreciated for his depictions of idyllic Breton scenes, celebrating the joys of rural childhood. These smiling peasant children are indicative of the vast popularity of genre scenes portraying children during the nineteenth century, as seen in the work of Théophile Duverger (lots 129 & 133), Pierre Edouard Frère and André Dargelas in France, Meyer von Bremen in Germany and Jan Marie Ten Kate in Holland.