Jean-Baptiste Hilaire

Galerie Cailleux, Paris;
Ernst Rosenfeld;
His deceased sale, New York, Parke-Bernet Galleries, January 4, 1947, lots 75 and 76, for $1,300 each;
Le Passe Galleries, by 1947;
Anonymous sale, New York, Christie's, May 26, 2000, lot 22.

Both panels are uncradled, flat and stable. Seated lady: the paint surface is very well preserved with lovely retention of detail in the figure and landscape. ultraviolet light shows some retouching to black shawl under her arms, a couple of tiny retouches on bottom of white drapery of her gown ,and slight reinforcement of her eyelids. Standing lady: as with the other, the paint surface is very well retained with lovely detail. ultraviolet light reveals some retouches along right edge; some slight reinforcement of her features such as eyelids, mouth and nostrils; and a few tiny cosmetic dots of retoucing on hair, hat and costume. This pair is in overall lovely state and there is no need for further work. In carved and gilt frames with swags of stylized leaves at top. some minor nicks.
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.

This pair of paintings can be dated to circa 1785.