Michel II Corneille

The catalogue illustration is accurate. There are a few light stains in the lower part of the sheet and a larger stain, circa 6cm in diameter below Venus' thigh.
"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."

Le dessin que nous présentons fut réalisé d'après le tableau d'Annibale Carracci daté vers 1602 et conservé au Musée Condé de Chantilly. Durant son séjour à Rome en 1663, Michel II Corneille s'est beaucoup inspiré du travail des maîtres classiques italiens, parmi lesquels les frères Carrache. Dessinateur de talent, Corneille se distingue dans cette composition par une touche fluide et une certaine maîtrise des jeux d'ombre et de lumière.


SLEEPING VENUS SURROUNDED BY PUTTI AT PLAY

Pen and black ink, grey wash;
bears old attribution lower left: Ann. Carracci

The present drawing is after the Annibale Carracci painting dating from around 1602, now in the Musée Condé in Chantilly.  During his stay in Rome in 1663, Michel II Corneille took great inspiration from the work of the classical Italian masters, including the Carracci brothers.  A talented draughtsman, Corneille distinguishes himself in this composition by his supple touch and a mastery of light and shadow.