Jean Joseph Xavier Bidauld

The canvas is unlined. The paint surface has a somewhat pronounced craquelure pattern in the sky, but the painting is stable and presents a strong image. UV light reveals some thin lines and scattered spots of retouching in the sky, in the lower foreground, and at the outer edges. The painting is in overall good condition, and it can be hung in its current state. Sold 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.

After studying at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts in Lyon, Jean-Joseph-Xavier Bidauld moved to Paris in 1783 and was fortunate enough to spend the summer training with Claude-Joseph Vernet, painting in the forests of Fontainebleau.  Bidauld, like other French landscape painters of his generation, then spent five years in the Italian countryside to complete his artistic training.  Known for his remarkable use of sunlight, Bidauld was one of the finest neoclassical landscapists in France and his style remained consistent throughout his career.  He exhibited regularly at the Salon from 1791 until 1844. 

The painting will be included in the forthcoming catalogue raisonné on the artist by Stéphane Rouvet.  Rouvet stylistically dates the picture to circa 1810-1820.