German School, mid-18th century

The canvas has been relined and has a protective wax backing. The paint surface is very dirty, and is covered by an uneven varnish. There are a few small specks of paint loss, including three in the sitter's forehead and on his fur cuff. Beautiful glazes remain intact, particularly on the face, and there is little wear. Inspection under ultraviolet light shows infilling of craquelure and varnishing over the infilling. There is some faint restrengthening to the lace cuff. This lot is offered in a carved and gilded, with some surface knocks and discoloured gilding, but otherwisesound. For all sales which take place on or after 1 February 2015, please note that the rate of buyer's premium for each lot (charged as a percentage of the hammer price achieved for that lot) has been revised and shall be calculated at the thresholds set out below: Buyer's premium is 25% of the hammer price up to and including £100,000; Buyer's premium is 20% of the hammer price on any amount in excess of £100, 000 up to and including £1,800,000; Buyer's premium is 12% of the hammer price on any amount in excess of £1,800,000. As stated above, the revised thresholds are effective as of 1 February 2015.
"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."

Gotthelf Adolph Graf von Hoym was the last male descendent of one of the wealthiest landowning families in the Electorate of Saxony. Like his forefathers he pursued a political career, acting as both a privy councillor and minister at the Imperial Court. This elegant portrait was displayed in one Graf Hoym’s castles, Schloß Guteborn, situated 60 km north of Dresden.