Private collection, Normandy ;
Sale, New York, 31 January 1997, lot 104 ;
Purchased from the above by the current owner

toile from Belot ; network of craquelures visible ; a few craquelures on the hair ; little repainted area at the top of the hair ; tiny repainted area on the right breast ; a few thin craquelures repainted on the face ; light repainted touches on the chin and the cheeks, hardly visible under UV lamp
"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 dress and jewels help to date the painting circa 1810. By its quality, the painting may be compared with the portrait of Caroline, queen of Naples with her children, kept in the Musée national du château de Malmaison, Rueil-Malmaison.
According to family tradition, the sitter is Caroline Murat, Napoléon Bonaparte's sister, which is not certain but possible.
This painting was authenticated by Alain Latreille.
See illustration on previous page.