Henri-François Riesener

Private collection, France

Canvas is relined. The picture is in very favorable condition and could be hung in its current state. The background was originally applied in thinner glazes and still appears to retain that translucence. The figure himself retains the vast majority of his detailing and originalgGlazes. UV light reveals a few small cosmetic retouches scattered in the sitters forehead, face and shirt but these are pindot size and not significant, nor do they repair any significant damages. The varnish appears slightly opaque under UV light and perhaps a light clean would brighten the overall color. The painting is in a carved giltwood 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.
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.

An exciting rediscovery, this painting of the famous cabinetmaker Jean-Henri Riesener (Gladbeck 1734 - Paris 1806) is a unique portrait by his son, the artist François Henri Riesener. 

Cabinetmaker of the King, official supplier to the royal court and family, Jean-Henri Riesener was a leader in developing the more Rococo style of Louis XV furniture towards the more harmonious and elegant neoclassicism of the late eighteenth century.  During the French Revolution, the Riesener family fortune disappeared with the privileges of the royal artists; it was at this time that his son, Henri-François, began to make a living as a painter. Under the influence of Jacques-Louis David, he became a talented portraitist and exhibited regularly at the Salon.

The present portrait, dated 1800, is from the early stages of the artist's career. It is not only a tribute of a son to his father, but also illustrates Riesener's ability to grasp the psychology of his models.  Henri-François traveled to Warsaw, St. Petersburg and Moscow, where he was introduced to the Tsar by the Grand Duke Constantine. He returned to France to continue his career after nearly seven years in Russia.

This painting will be included in the catalogue raisonné on the artist currently being prepared by Alexis Bordes.