Louis-François Cassas

The illustration in the catalogue is too pink. The drawing is more beige. Good overall condition. Some minor stains in the sky.
"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."

Cassas fut convié par l'ambassadeur de France à Constantinople, Choiseul-Gouffier, à visiter avec lui l'Orient afin d'y dessiner les monuments, les costumes et les sites les plus curieux. Arrivé en août 1784 à Constantinople, il quitta la ville en octobre pour se rendre sur les côtes de Syrie et d'Egypte. L'artiste fit notamment escale à Alep, Antioche, Chypre, Alexandrie, en Syrie, au Liban et en Palestine et en rapporta des documents très importants décrivant les monuments et les coutumes orientales. Il fut l'un des premiers artistes à entreprendre un long voyage en Orient et est à ce titre considéré comme l'un des premiers peintres orientalistes français.