Jean François Portaels

Sale: Christie's, London, 15 June 2005, lot 66

There are hairline horizontal cracks emanating from the centre and upper left edge, and from the lower half of the right edge, and some bowing to the upper and lower right (convex) and left (concave) corners of the panel. There are scattered spots of retouching visible under ultraviolet light, notably to the upper right corner and to the hairline cracks, partially obscured under a varnish. Apart from scattered fine craquelure, this work is in good condition, with rich colours and fine detail. Held in a decorative, gold-painted moulded plaster and wood frame.
"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."

Portaels began his artistic career at the Académie des Beaux-Arts in Brussels under François-Joseph Navez. He worked under Paul Delaroche in Paris, winning the Prix de Rome in 1842. Portaels subsequently travelled to Morocco, Algeria, Libya, Egypt and Judea and his formative experiences in North Africa inspired the lavish treatment and exotic subject matter of his Orientalist works.