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This picture is after the painting by Rubens of circa 1632-5 in the National Gallery, London (inv. no. NG194), depicting one of the pivotal moments in classical mythology. Paris, the lost Prince of Troy, is asked to decide which of the three goddesses Aphrodite, Hera or Athena should receive the golden apple, inscribed 'to the fairest one', which had been dropped by Eris, goddess of discord, at the wedding of Peleus and Thetis. Paris finally awarded the apple to Aphrodite due to her promise that by naming her the winner, he would receive the most beautiful woman in the world as his wife. This was the choice that would lead to Paris’s eventual abduction of Helen of Sparta, and the Trojan Wars.
A scientific examination report of the painting by Dr. Nicholas Eastaugh, dated 21 June 2001, is available upon request.
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Condition report
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The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.
The painting presents very well in natural light, with the painterly approach to execution and the details of the composition well preserved. The canvas has been subject to relining, it is held under tension and remains stable. In a raking light a fine pattern of craquelure is visible across the paint surface. There is some minor paint loss to the foliage in the upper right hand corner. There is some frame abrasion to the canvas edges, with some minor associated paint loss, notably in the upper left hand corner. The paint remains stable. Examination under UV light reveals two historic restoration campaigns. Notably in the background beneath Medusa's shield, between the two figures the the left and in the drapery of the central female figure. There is some further scattered retouching.
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Lot 129Sale 20555
The Judgement of ParisFOLLOWER OF SIR PETER PAUL RUBENSEstimate: GBP 15,000 - 20,000
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