MANNER OF REMBRANDT | Portrait of a lady, half-length

MANNER OF REMBRANDT
Portrait of a lady, half-length

oil on oak panel
71.6 by 56cm.; 28¼by 22in.

Condition Report:
The panel is uncradled, flat and stable, with paper applied to the reverse. It is formed of three vertical planks, the joins of which run down to the left of the sitter, and through the back of her head. The paint surface is dirty and the varnish is very discoloured, dulled and matte. Some of the darker pigments, notably around the figure's head, show evidence of bitumenisation, and there are small discoloured spot retouchings visible, notably in the background to the right of the figure, in the lower part of her collar and in the dark of her dress between the two lapels, in her right arm, in her hand, and in a small diagonal line in her proper left temple, approx. 2cm. long. There are further fine lines of retouching along the grain of the wood, visible scattered throughout the sitter. Inspection under ultraviolet light reveals the thick, milky varnish, underneath which the aforementioned retouchings are visible, but there does not appear to be any further intervention than what is apparent to the naked eye. In seemingly overall fair condition.

"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."

Provenance:
Richard, 2nd Duke of Buckingham and Chandos (1797-1861), Stowe House, Buckinghamshire;

His sale, Christie's on the premises, Stowe House, twenty-third day, 14 September 1848, lot 327 (as 'A portrait, called Lady Jane Grey'), to R. Berkeley Esq., for £15.4.6.