Joseph Caraud

Galerie Sedelmeyer, Paris (wax seal on reverse)

The canvas has not been lined. Overall, the work is in good condition and presents very well. Faint stretcher marks are visible along the four edges and along to the horizontal stretcher bar. There is also a pattern of very light hairline craquelure throughout. Ultra-violet light reveals scattered spots of retouching, including: an area in the curtains towards the centre of the composition and one small area to the left of the chest of the lady in white (both patched on the reverse), fine touches in the face of the standing man to the left and intermittent strokes to the right framing edge. The picture is ready to hang. Presented in a gilt decorative 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."

Set in a sumptuous French interior redolent of Versailles, the present work likely depicts the boudoir of Madame du Barry, mistress of King Louis XV, himself standing to the left. The antique marble sculpture in the background, based on a bronze original dating from 200 BC, is now in the Louvre.