Manner of Alexandre-François Desportes

In the possession of the current family since at least 1967.

The canvas is unlined. Both horizontal and vertical stretcher impressions are faintly visible and there further impressions diagonally across the four corners with resulting minor cracking and losses in the upper left and lower right corners. The paint surface is in very good condition over all, particularly for a canvas of this size. The surface has a yellowed varnish and there are fine vertical lines of blistering and very slight alligatoring in the area surrounding the dog's tail. Inspection under UV reveals no obvious intervention, though minor old retouching may be hidden under the milky varnish. The painting would benefit from a light clean and fresh varnish.
"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."

This composition repeats the prime version by Desportes in the Musée du Louvre (inv. no. 3899).