MARGUERITE GÉRARD & JEAN-HONORÉ FRAGONARD1761 - 1837 AND 1732 - 1806 | The Interesting Student

Oil on canvas

Translated from the French condition report made by Isabelle Leegenhoek The painting has been relined (old relining), not too stiffly, and is on a stretcher held together with spanners. The painted surface is covered with a dirty and yellow uniform varnish layer. It is painted on a light and very thick primer, which is responsible for the rather present craquelure pattern. The painted surface in the darker areas is very thinly applied and fluid, and it consists of different transparent painted surface layers, each of these have resulted in premature craquelure patterns. The main figure and all the lighter areas consist of a thicker material which does not show any craquelure pattern and is in a very nice condition. Under UV light, we can see the retouchings mentioned above in the premature craquelure patterns in the darker areas, in the red cloth and in the sculptures, and also some retouchings in the ears of the dog. The painting does not show any damages. The actual state of preservation is good, with the restorations well integrated. A cleaning would allow the painting to achieve more in its depth and saturation. Concluding, the painting is in a very good state of conservation, but shows a premature craquelure pattern, retouched in its backgrounds.
"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."