FRENCH SCHOOL, EARLY 19TH CENTURY | Portrait of a young boy

Partially laid down. Overall in very good condition. Black chalk remains strong and vibrant throughout. There are two small stains in the upper right corner and one in the upper left corner. Sold unframed.
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.

This highly charismatic depiction of a young boy, whose general appearance, including his carefully knotted necktie, gives off an air of formality and maturity, is belied by his gaze, which the artist has intentionally aimed away to the left of the viewer, in doing so communicating a slight sense of unease in the sitter. Though it has not been possible to establish the artist responsible for this well preserved and technically accomplished sheet, other examples of anonymous French drawings from the early 19th Century, such as Portrait of a Young Man in a Beret, possibly a Self-Portrait,¹ have in recent years attracted increasing levels of attention due to their inherent aesthetic qualities.

^1. Sale, New York, Sotheby's, 29 January 2014, lot 125