Pierre-Jacques Bethon

The painting is clean and ready to hang. The canvas has an old relining. There is a pattern of faint minor old craquelure consistent with the work's age, including corresponding to the central horizontal stretcher bar. Ultraviolet light reveals scattered retouchings which are relatively minor compared with the overall size of the painting, notably: clustered spots in Venus's chin, a spot in her left breast, and a small area in her lower torso and drapery; in very thin strokes addressing craquelure in the cherub in the lower left; and scattered clusters of tiny spots and a handful of small areas corresponding to repairs in the background. Presented in a decorative gilt frame.
"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."