Attributed to Léon RIESENER (Paris 1808-1878) Study of a bare-chested black man, arms raised, hands crossed over his head Charcoal, pastel and white chalk on blue-gray paper On verso, two old exhibition and shipping labels (Small stains, foxing, glued in place.) Height 51.5 cm; Width: 40 cm Provenance : - Former Dethomas collection - Former Godard Decrais collection Exhibition: Eugène Delacroix, Bern, Kunstmuseum, November 16, 1963 - January 19, 1964, no. 93, "Étude de Nègre", as by Eugène Delacroix, not reproduced. Léon Riesener was Eugène Delacroix's cousin and close friend. Ten years his junior, he began his training in Baron Gros's studio in 1823, before becoming a regular painter at the Salons from the 1830s. Strongly influenced by his illustrious cousin, he distinguished himself by his colorist skills and the great variety of his work. He was always supported by Delacroix, who recommended him on numerous occasions and bequeathed part of his estate to him after his death in 1863. He took part in the decoration of the Hôtel de Ville de Paris and created the coffered ceiling of the Bibliothèque du Sénat. TEMPORARY IMPORTATION The buyer of this lot will be required to pay a 5.5% temporary import fee in addition to the sale price. EXPERT: Cabinet de BAYSER