MAURICE DENIS | Saint-Guirec (Lever de lune)

Mr. Fenaille, France (acquired in 1915)
Sale: Chambelland, Paris, 6^th July 1999, lot 133
Purchased at the above sale by the present owner

The board is stable. Examination under UV light reveals an area of retouching to the extreme upper left corner. There is some old frame abrasion with associated small spots of paint loss along all four edges, which are not visible when framed. There is another small spot of paint loss to the horizon towards the centre of the left edge. There are signs of frame rubbing along the upper edge. There are some spots of discolouration to the sky in the upper right quadrant, and some fly spots in places. There is a pinhole to the centre of the upper edge. This work is in overall good condition.
"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."

The present work represents Saint Guirec blessing his disciples in front of the Port of Perros-Guirec in Northern Brittany. The bearded gentleman portrayed on the extreme left of the work is likely a depiction of the painter, Denis himself, or indeed his friend, the painter Albert Clovant.

The authenticity of this work has been confirmed by Claire Denis.