Napoleon in his study - 1812

Napoleon in his study - 1812

Theatre prop, Napoleon based on David's "Napoleon in his Study - 1812", National Gallery, Washington. The painting was used around 1988 in the play "Gigi" at The Theatre Royal, Plymouth.

Media: 
Emulsion on cotton
Size: 
185 cm x 127 cm
Date: 
Around 1988
Signed: 
No
Inscription: 
On back: Handle with care. Theatre prop Sketch/ Napoleon based on David's "Napoleon in his Study - 1812, National Gallery, Washington.
Additional Information: 

The authenticity of this piece was repeatedly questioned when it came up for sale at Rendells Ashburton, 25 April 2003, lot 1658, then again Rendells Ashburton, 17 Oct 2003, lot 1656, then on eBay, then at Fenner, Tavistock, 15 Feb 2004, lot 328, then at Dreweatt Neate, Honiton, 08 Apr 2005, lot 341. Every time the piece remained unsold in spite of ever decreasing estimates. The authenticity was questioned in spite of an accompanying letter giving the background to why it was made.

The work is, however, a genuine piece by Robert Lenkiewicz. People near Robert knew about it and has authenticated it.