Frederik Hendrik Kaemmerer

Acquired by the grandfather of the present owner in the early 1930s.

The canvas is lined. The surface is in excellent condition aside for some areas of very fine craquelure, notably in the woman's yellow dress. The pigments are fresh and vibrant. Under UV; there is a thin band of inpaiting along all 4 edges possibly to address prior frame abrasion, and 1 retouch of approximately 1/2 inch in diameter in the building to the right of the male figure's head.
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.

Kaemmerer depicts life during the Directoire (1795 - 1799) when Napoleon first took control of the French state after the initial horrors of the Revolution.  It was a time of great relief, of relaxing and freedom when fashionable people dressed extravagantly.  Such men were named “Incroyables” and the woman “Merveilleuses”.   Saint Sulpice and the Luxembourg Palace are in the background.