Lot 413A: Constant Mayer 1832-1911 , Maud Muller

signed Constant Mayer , and dated 1867 ( center right) oil on canvas, unframed Condition Note: Canvas is not lined. SURFACE: upper half of work and much of lower half is in good condition; 3 small tears across the center of work (longest is just under 2 in.); an area about 4 1/2 by 7 in. at lower left quadrant--with old cracking and flaking (is stable now)--looks like old, unscuccessful repairs were undertaken at one time to fix this--needs some work UNDER ULTRA VIOLET: very difficult to see through old varnish, particularly in lower half of picture; no apparent inpainting We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described in our catalogue. 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 DISCUSSION CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

measurements 22 by 16 5/8 in. alternate measurements 56 by 42.3 cm.

Private Collection, Rhode Island

Maud Muller is the heroine and title of a romantic poem by John Greenleaf Whittier. It is a bittersweet love story of unrequited love between a low born, but lovely young peasant woman and an aristocratic young judge, who meet by chance for a moment. Although they are smitten with one another, the harsh realities of their class differences prevent them from ever meeting again. Neither ever forgets that first encounter. The present painting shows the still-lovely Maud years later as a full-grown woman working hard in the fields, pausing and remembering that brief interlude in her youth.