Lot 125: Simon-Joseph-Alexandre-Clément Denis Antwerp 1755 - 1813 Naples , The Grotto at Vicovaro

signed and inscribed in ink Dans le Grotto de Vicovaro / S n. Denis and numbered 143 (on verso); also inscribed in pencil in a later hand Simon Denis Peintre Flamand du / XVIII siècle . Les tableaux sont exposés / au Musée du Louvre (Paris) / au Musée du Compiègne / au Musée de Montpellier / au Musée d'Anvers (Belgique) oil on paper Condition Note: Unreinforced paper, affixed at the top to plexi. Freshly varnished. It appears that the lower corners have been reinforced with tissue. Overall in a lovely state. Nice impasto. With a few touches in the sky at left and a few other tiny cosmetic touches to the rocks. The work can be hung as is, and there is no need for further work. In a gilt wood frame that appears to have been cut down. 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 9 1/2 by 13 3/4 in. alternate measurements 24.1 by 35 cm.

A picturesque town of just 4,000 inhabitants, Vicovaro is located north of Rome and in close proximity to Tivoli. It was absorbed into the Roman Empire in the 5υth century BC. Tivoli?s dark grottos have always intrigued visitors to the town and would have held romantic appeal for Denis. In the present painting, the dark, towering bluff obscures the light, providing an ideal atmosphere to study the effects of light and dark. The boulders also add to the complexity of the scene, and give the artist another opportunity to refine the dramatic chiaroscuro in the composition.