Lot 86: ATTRIBUTED TO FRANÇOIS MAROT  PARIS CIRCA 1666 - 1719  | Diana and Callisto

Huile sur toile

266 x 250 cm

Oil on canvas

The actual painting is a little bit more contrasted than the catalogue illustration would suggest. The canvas is either unlined and has a canvas semi-attached to it, or it is relined and some parts of the relining have become detached from its lining. The canvas consists of various pieces of canvas stitched together which is consistent with its large size, their seams can all be seen in the catalogue image: one horizontal seam can be seen running at ca. 83 cm from the top, all the way through; this seam has been retouched and has partly opened. Another vertical seam run in the left part, at ca. 82 cm from the left. And there is another vertical seam, at ca. 74cm from the right edge, which is partly opened. Various damages can be seen, one hole (ca. 2 cm) in the lower center near the daisies. There is an old repaired damage in the tree area upper center. Furthermore, very crude retouched damages or retouchings in the seams mentioned above, also scattered ones throughout can be observed, mainly around the edges. The painted surface is covered with a very old, dirty and discolored varnish layer. The painted surface is covered with a very dense and fine craquelure pattern which has turned ‘blind’ in some areas, e.g. in the dress of the figure on the left. Most of the impastos of the clothing and the figures seem to be nicely preserved, and the painting would greatly benefit for a thorough restoration. Under the UV light The inspection with the UV shows different areas of fluorescence, showing retouchings and strenghtenings mentioned above, some other ones in the contours of the animals left (dogs) and right (eagle). Offered with a plain gold-painted wooden frame.
"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."

Château d'Aunoy, Champeaux.