Lot 185
  • 185

A Set of Four Trompe L'Oeil Oil Paintings On Marble Representing Allegories of The Arts, The Sciences, Pastoral Music, and Serious Music, By Piat-Joseph Sauvage (1744-1818) circa 1800

Estimate
15,000 - 25,000 USD
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Description

  • wool
  • each 23 5/8 by 39 3/8 in.
  • 60 by 100 cm
Serious Music signed lower right Sauvage

Condition

Minor losses to paint throughout. Some areas of inpainting and varnish to consolidate flaking. 'Pastoral music' broken and repaired with some fill. Attractive and stable overall.
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.

Catalogue Note

This set of allegories typifies the illustionistic tour de force painting that was Sauvage's specialty.  Painted on marble, each composition depicts two putti, painted to imitate a bronze relief sculpture with green patina, on either side of a medallion with a different central motif.  Of the two medallions representing music, Pastoral Music is symbolized by bagpipes and a shepherd's crook, while Serious Music is symbolized by a violin, Pan pipes, and trumpets.  The Arts are represented by an artist's palette, a sculpture bust, and compass, and Sciences by an open book, a globe, and a telescope.