Jules Coignet

Private collection, France         

The canvas has not been lined. There are some scattered spots of retouching in the sky, including one circa 7 by3cm area addressing an old repair (patched on the reverse) in the upper left corner. Other spots of retouching are visible, notably: - some lines of in-painting in the drying craquelure in the tree top in the left; - intermittent strokes of retouching in the lower and right framing edges; - one small area in the cypress in front of the tower, addressing craquelure; and - one circa 10cm vertical stroke addressing an old repair in the ground in the lower right corner (patched on the reverse). Otherwise, this work presents very well and is in good overall condition. Presented in a decorative gilt 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."

Rumelihisarı is situated at the narrowest point of the Bosphorus. The fortress was built by Sultan Mehmed II between 1451 and 1452 in order to control sea traffic through the strait and to prevent aid from the Black Sea reaching Constantinople during his siege of the city in 1453, particularly from the Genoese colonies including Caffa, Sinop, and Amasra. In a previous Ottoman attempt to conquer the city, Sultan Murad II (1404–1451) had encountered difficulties due to a blockade of the Bosphorus by the Byzantine fleet. The three main towers were named after the Pachas who supervised their construction. The Sultan personally inspected the construction, which involved thousands of masons and workers. The fortress was completed in a record time of four months and sixteen days on 31 August 1452.