Attributed to Antoine-François Callet

Both canvases have been relined and both paint surfaces are secure under dirty old yellowed varnishes. There is an old restored tear in the lower right corner of the latter painting and some vertical old restored damages on both the full extent of the left and right margins of each picture perhaps where the canvases were previously folded and these are visible in the catalogue illustration. Retouching work is visible to the naked eye in these areas and is confirmed under UV which reveals some more minor work in both, particularly in the latter work. Offered in matching gilt wood and plaster frames in good condition.
"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."

Although best known for his official royal portraits Callet painted a small number of mythological or allegorical subjects, usually to commission. The most important of these was a group of six works commissioned for the Château de Bagatelle by the Comte d'Arthois (1757-1836; the future Charles X of France). Two of these works were sold in these Rooms, 4 July 2007, lot 67 and the present pair bear a striking resemblance to them. Indeed the statue of Pan in the latter might even be the same as that depicted in the Bagatelle work.