Ernest Charton (1815-1877)

Private Collection, France
Thence by descent to the present owner 

The canvas has an old lining. The stretcher seems to be original. The surface is attractive. Under ultraviolet light, one can see restorations down the right edge, extending into the picture by about half an inch. There are similar restorations down the left side that extend very slightly into the composition. The top and bottom edges have not been restored in this way. The lining seems to address a structural damage. There may be a break in the canvas, with restored losses beginning around the two children in the lower center running upwards towards the parapet on which the people are leaning and sitting. These losses extend into the buildings in the town beyond the parapet, slightly interrupting the figures. These losses also extend into the top of the side of the parapet in the lower center. All of these losses are very isolated and specific, and the restoration is good. Although the restorations should be noted, the condition still remains good. (This condition report has been provided courtesy of Simon Parkes Art Conservation, Inc.)
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.