Revised: 8/21/2009
Additional Information: This piece was actually sold by private treaty previously, not at public auction as description states.
ATTRIBUTED TO PIERRE NARCISSE GUERIN (French, 1774-1833) THE RETURN OF MARCUS SEXTUS FROM EXILE. This unsigned oil on canvas is a half size version of “The Return of Marcus Sextus” by Pierre Narcisse Guerin acquired by the Louvre in 1830. The scene represents the return home of a Roman military leader, supposedly banished by the Dictator Sulla and now pardoned. Upon his return, he is stunned to find his wife dead and his daughter grieving. This was interpreted, in Guerin’s day as an allegory of the return of the emigres to France. It is this political interpretation which probably accounts for the extraordinary popularity of the painting. This painting appears to be possibly a compositional study for the life size painting in the Louvre. It reveals the entire composition but has many of the details missing. Included with the painting is a detailed explanation as to the attribution and the possibility that this painting is a final study for the Louvre’s’ painting rather than a replica. Housed in a magnificent antique gilt and carved wood frame. Attached to the frame is a printed card “W. Ellis, Carver and Gilder, 12 College Lane, Liverpool”. SIZE: 39-1/2″ x 47″. Total including frame 59-1/2″ x 67. PROVENANCE: According to the information provided us the painting was acquired in 1883 or before by Captain Henry Spaulding of South Thomaston, Maine. Sold by the family descendants in 1990 and consigned by the buyer. A copy of a letter from Captain Spaulding dated “1883” discussing the painting accompanies the lot. CONDITION: Very good. Cleaned, relined, small torn areas retouched and revarnished in 1988. 9-95798 (8,000-12,000)
Auction:
Fine Art, Antiques & Asian - August 2009
Please Note: All prices include the hammer price
plus the buyer’s premium, which is paid by the buyer as part of the purchase price. The prices noted here after the auction are considered unofficial and do not become official until after the 46th day.
