Jean-Bruno Gassies

W. Knoll, Zurich, according to a label on the frame;
Sale: Koller, Zurich, 19 September 1996, lots 102 & 100;
With Galerie Renoncourt, Paris;
From whom purchased by the husband of the present owner in 1996.

Paris, Salon, 1814, no. 420 and 1817, no. 364 respectively

Virgile lisant son Enéïde devant Auguste: Oil on canvas laid down on panel. Panel is 3/4 inch thick and the canvas weave is visible over the surface. Abrasions and surface dirt. There are discolored retouches visible to the naked eye scattered over the picture surface. Under UV light, there are scattered inpaints throughout the background of the work, especially along the perimeter. There is an area of inpainting in August's left neck and around his profile as well as in his robes. There is an additional spot of inpainting in the seated woman's proper right elbow. Virgil's neck also has areas of retouching, as does his white robe. Horace au tombeau de Virgile: Oil on canvas, unlined. Two small patches on the reverse: on near left foot of man presenting the crown and the other near the right foot of the man pointing at the tombstone. Surface dirt and a discolored varnish. A minor web of craquelure over the entire surface. Under UV, very little is discernable, though there appear to be no apparent inpaints.
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.