JEAN ANTOINE LAURENT | Portrait of a writer, circa 1795

By descent within the artist's family until Madame Chabert, 1906;
David David-Weill (1871-1952), inv. no. 732, until 1936;
with Wildenstein, Paris;
Sir Charles Clore (1905-1979);
his executor's sale, London, Sotheby's, 10 November 1986, lot 22

Paris, 1906, no. 43;
London, 1961, no. 125;
London, 1968, no. 950 

Bouchot, 1907, p. 190 (as a Portrait of the artist's brother);
Bouchot, 1910, p. 249 (as a Portrait of the artist's brother);
Demonts, 1922, p. 51 (as a Self-portrait);
Gillet, et al., 1957, p. 210, no. 125;
Schidlof, 1964, vol. I, p. 471 (as a Portrait of the artist's brother 'excellent');
Friesen, 2001, p. 415, no. 212 

There are artist's extensions at the left and right margins and another just above the sitter's head. While evident they appear to be stable. Very minor pigment loss in hair further loss margin at 4 o'clock and between and 8 and 9 o'clock. Minor retouching of breeches at 6 o'clock.
"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."

This portrait is an early example of the romantic writer, seen working alone in his garret.