Attributed to Alexandre-François Desportes

Framed in modern simple wood frame. The drawing has been cut out along the left of the upper edge, although the paper replacing the loss appears to be contemporary. There are two small water-type stains at the lower left, and there is a slight loss of paint where the drawing was once vertically folded at the left edge. Overall, however, the condition is not bad and the image is still strong.
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.

Desportes made numerous studies such as this, not only of animals, but also flowers, fruits or plants, which he later used as inspiration in his painted work.  From 1692 onwards, he amassed a vast repertoire of motifs which he would use for the rest of his career.  After his death, the majority were retained by his son, who then passed them to Alexandre-François's nephew and pupil, Nicolas Desportes.  Ten years later, Comte d'Angivillier acquired the group on behalf of Sèvres, so that the studies could serve as models for the decoration of the porcelain.¹  This study must have been one of the few to have been previously acquired by a different collector.

1. P. Jacky, Alexandre-François Desportes, Tableaux de chasse, Paris 1998, p. 67