Charles-Antoine-Joseph Loyeux

Sold, Tajan, Paris, October 25, 1999, lot 178, illustrated (as L'abandon)

Probably, Paris, Salon, 1881, no. 1484

Lined. Finely patterned craquelure visible at lower right, small chip of loss at lower center edge. Under UV: areas of inpainting to reinforce the areas of shadow throughout across and around her body, areas to address abrasion along perimeter and the "18" of the date.
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.

In Greek mythology, Erigone was the daughter of the Athenian hero Icarius who learned vintology from Dionysus, god of winemaking.  After giving drink to several shepherds who soon became intoxicated, Icarius was killed by their fellows who believed he had poisoned them.  Erigone was left to find her father's grave under a tree, hanging herself from its branches in her grief. In vengeance, Dionysus punished the citizens of Athens and in reverence placed Icarius and Erigone into the sky as stars (Boötes and Virgo).  Erigone had been the subject of artists since the Renaissance and as in many traditional depictions, rather than focus on the more tragic elements of the myth, Loyeux captures the lovely Erigone lazing against a gleaming blue cloth.  An empty chalice has fallen from her hand, while her other holds a golden pitcher which together with the ripe bunches of grapes allude to her tale.