Luis Paret y Alcázar

Anonymous sale ('The Property of a Gentleman'), London, Christie's, 19 March 1965, lot 95, for 900 guineas to Spence (as Fragonard, one of a pair);
Acquired by the father of the present owner.

In overall good condition. The canvas is lined, the paint surface is relatively clean and the varnish is clear and even. Much of the impasto paintwork is well-preserved and the colours are bright. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals two campaigns of restoration. Older restoration is found around the rounded margin and scattered along the lower margin. More recent restoration is found in the fine network of craquelure in the putto’s torso, leg, and in his eye, in the shadow of his chest, as well as scattered in the background, most notably to two old vertical scratches or tears, each approx. 10cm. long, one in the centre through the circular decoration, and one on the right in the arch. Offered in a carved and gilt wood frame in very good condition.
"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."

The pair to this painting, depicting the Triumph of Love over War, signed lower left: L Paret, and dating from 1784 is now in the Museo de Bellas Artes, Bilbao (inv. no. 99/128), having formerly been sold London, Sotheby’s, 9 July 1998, lot 343 as ‘French School, second half of the 18^th Century.'