Charles-François Grenier de Lacroix, called Lacroix de Marseille

The following condition report has been provided by Simon Parkes of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc. 502 East 74th St. New York, NY 212-734-3920, simonparkes@msn.com , an independent restorer who is not an employee of Sotheby's. This painting is in very good condition. The canvas does not appear to be lined. The paint layer is stable yet very slightly cracked, although not unattractively so. The paint layer has been cleaned, varnished and retouched in a few spots in the tree stump on the right side and in a spot in the branch in the center left. There are a few other isolated retouches visible under ultraviolet light elsewhere. We consider the condition to be excellent.
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.

Lacroix de Marseille was established in Rome from 1750 to 1763, working together with Claude Joseph Vernet (in Rome since 1743) and was clearly influenced by the compositions and style of the latter. The first painting confirming Lacroix's presence in Rome is a view of a Seaport signed, located and dated in 1750. The present work was certainly executed during his stay in Italy, showing the artist's intention of putting life into a classical landscape, not only with the figures nicely drawn up but also with a diffuse light flooding the canvas. When looking at the two men on the left, it is undeniable that Lacroix was directly or indirectly influenced by the works of Salvator Rosa.

The painting will be published in the forthcoming Catalogue Raisonné of the works of Lacroix de Marseille currently in preparation by Mr. Jean-Luc Ryaux.