JEAN-LÉON GÉRÔME | The Citadel, Acre

Estate of the artist
Mme Renault (daughter of the artist, by descent from the above); thence by descent until the 1960s
Private collection, Paris 
Sale: Bondu Scp, Paris, 16 December 2011, lot 179
Purchased at the above sale by the present owner 

The canvas has not been lined and is securely attached to a keyed wooden stretcher. There is some light surface craquelure, not too disturbing to the naked eye. Inspection under ultra-violet light reveals some minor spots of cosmetic retouching in the white curtain and some spots in the lower left and upper right corners respectively. Otherwise, this work is in good condition and is ready to hang. Presented in a decorative gilt frame with a nameplate.
"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."

Painted circa 1861, the view is of the main courtyard of the Hall of the Knights of St John, Acre. At the time Gérôme visited and painted it, it was used as a market.

To be included in Dr Emily M. Weeks's revision of the artist's catalogue raisonné by Gerald Ackerman.