Louis Bardi After Louise Élisabeth Vigée Le Brun

With Louis Pisants, Rome (according to an inscription on the reverse of the canvas).

This absolutely charming work appears slightly more yellow in tone than the catalogue reproduction suggests, the small size of the image in the catalogue does not justice to this large work and its charismatic sitter. The canvas is unlined and in fine condition. There is small old patched repair lower right. The corresponding area on the painted side has a tiny chip in the paint surface, just about visible in the catalogue. The paint surface is slightly dirty, and there is some gentle craquelure on the sitter's face. But there are no critical signs of decay. Inspection under Ultraviolet light shows only some very old minor cosmetic retouchings. This wonderful portrait is sold in a large moulded gilt frame, as shown.
"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."

A copy of the self portrait, now in the Uffizi, Florence (inv. no. A1001),¹ painted by Louise Élisabeth Vigée Le Brun (Paris 1755 - 1842) painted in 1790, which depicts the artist painting the portrait of Marie Antoinette, Queen of France (1755 - 1793).

1. See Gli Uffizi, Catalogo Generale, Florence 1979, p. 1034, cat. no. A1001, reproduced p. 1034 and 780 in colour.