Théophile Blanchard

Royal Collection of Louis-Philippe, according to the stamp, L.P.O topped by a crown, on the back of the canvas

Painting is unlined. there is excellent retention of the paint surface with lovely detail and coloration. there is a tiny tear at left side just to right of the tree and some small paint losses just above same tree. ultraviolet light reveals only a few isolated retouches in sky and landscape. overall painting is in lovely state. In a carved and gilt wood frame with stylized leaf pattern.
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.

Théophile-Clément Blanchard was a French painter, lithographer and engraver active during the 1840s.  Although he died young, he had a successful carreer, winning second prize in the Prix de Rome in 1841, and medalling at the Salon in both 1842 and 1843.  In this expansive landscape, Blanchard captures the beauty of the Bresele river valley in eastern Normandy, complete with the landscaped grounds and renaissance-style palace of the Château d'Eu. Reconstructed during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries on the site of an earlier château, this palace was the summer residence of King Louis-Philippe from 1830 through 1848.  This work appears to have been in the collection of Louis-Philippe, as the stencil on the back of the work -- the initials L.P.O topped by a crown -- indicates.