PIERRE BETTENCOURT | La nuit de Cortes

mixed media on panel mounted on canvas Executed in 1971. 

Private Collection, France
Sale: Paris, Etude Binoche, 11 March 1998 
Galerie Emilio Arditti, Paris 
Private Collection, Italy
Private Collection, Belgium
Sale: Paris, Artcurial, Contemporary Art, 31 May 2010, lot 102
Acquired from the above sale by the current owners

Imperfections in the materials of the collage which seem stable are inherent to the artist's technique (including a loss on the upper right edge, as visible in the catalogue illustration). The surface is slightly dirty. Close inspection reveals superficial and stable hairline cracks most notably in the upper dark blue and red pigments.
"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."

Black masses, sacrifices, fiercely erotic scenes, rough materials... Bettencourt respects nothing, neither art nor the sacred.
Pierre Nahon